Juhi Chawla: Pride & Poise

There was a lot more innocence in the films that I did.

- Pooja Sharma

In her heyday, she’s seen it all - Success, glory, failure and a fair share of struggle. She feels it’s essential as part of the evolving process that has only helped her reach where she is today. Her focus has now shifted to selective and meaningful cinema. Even in the few-and-far between roles she takes up, she makes sure it’s portrayed in good taste. Juhi Chawla, who, at one point, was known for her soft, bubbly roles on screen, has, over the years, showcased a gamut of emotions in her portrayals. Eve off it, the soft-spoken actress is known to put her point across and make the strongest of statements in the most endearing way That’s her charm and inherent grace. In a late evening tete-a-tete the actress shares interesting anecdotes and discusses different aspects of cinema. Pooja Sharma is all ears.

Your next release is Chalk And Duster, in which you play a school teacher. Did you take up the film because you’re a parent, and also to put forth issues concerning parents today?

I can’t say that. It was just the script that was very interesting and touching. It’s also about respecting your teachers. I found the story very engaging and heartwarming, with drama, light moments and some serious stuff, and a very happy and uplifting ending. I really enjoyed it.

Do you feel the Indian education system has loopholes? How according to you could it be rectified or modified?