‘Money Is Easy, Respect Is Not’: Farida Jalal Reflects on Six-Decade Film Journey

Popular Hindi movie actress Farida Jalal has entertained her audiences through more than six decades of her acting career. She has had numerous roles to portray through her lengthy acting career, appearing at times as a sister, as a mother, and at other times as a grandmother in her films. Farida Jalal hardly ever played leading female roles, but she performed mostly supporting roles.

In a conversation with Navbharat Times, Farida Jalal recalled the early days of her career and shared her opinion on being typecast in the industry. She explained that she had set a limit for herself, which she never crossed. She said that she has always earned respect and honor through her roles. She also said that everyone can earn money, some choose the right path, others the wrong, but she has always chosen dignity.

Farida Jalal says that earning money in the film industry is not difficult, but gaining respect and recognition is not. To achieve this, an artist often has to make sacrifices in her decisions. She explained that she decided early in her career that she would work within certain boundaries, and she stuck to them.

This led to her playing supporting roles for a long time, but the depth and simplicity of her acting made her a favorite of the audience. Even today, audiences remember her as a relatable and affectionate portrayal of on-screen relationships.

Recalling the early stages of her career, Farida Jalal explained that she never had a strong desire to become a lead actress. In those days, heroines' roles often consisted of songs and glamorous scenes, while roles like sisters offered more opportunities for acting.

She said that when a role has emotional depth and a greater acting challenge, it is more satisfying for an artist. This philosophy has helped her establish a distinct identity.

Farida Jalal has worked in films, as well as on television and OTT platforms throughout her career. Her memorable films include classics like "Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge," "Kuch Kuch Hota Hai," and "Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham," in which her performances were highly praised.

Even today, she remains active and is seen in new projects. Most recently, she appeared opposite Shahid Kapoor in the film "O Romeo," which also starred Aruna Irani and Tripti Dimri.