Actor Janhvi Kapoor has opened up about an important moment in her journey towards Bollywood, revealing how her late mother and legendary actress Sridevi eventually became more accepting of her decision to pursue acting. In a recent conversation with Galatta Tamil, Janhvi recalled that Sridevi was initially unsure about her daughter's choice of profession. However, her mother gradually warmed up to the idea and gave her an important piece of advice about the dedication required to succeed in the film industry.
Janhvi also made a humorous remark while recalling when she felt her mother's opinion had changed. According to the actor, Sridevi was initially uncertain about her entering films, but after Janhvi underwent nose surgery, her mother jokingly appeared to recognise her potential. Janhvi recalled Sridevi saying, “Ya, there’s potential.”
The comment offered a glimpse into the personal conversations between the mother and daughter before Janhvi made her acting debut. It also brought attention to the influence Sridevi had on Janhvi's understanding of cinema, appearance and the challenges of working in the entertainment industry.
Sridevi's Advice to Janhvi Before Her Acting Career
Janhvi recalled that when she first told Sridevi about her desire to become an actor, her mother was taken aback. Sridevi understood the realities of the film industry from her own long experience and knew that an acting career involved much more than fame and glamour.
Although she was not immediately convinced by Janhvi's decision, Sridevi eventually told her that if she wanted to become an actor, she would have to dedicate her life to the profession.
Janhvi remembered her mother's words: “Okay, but then you have to give your life to it!”
The advice reflected Sridevi's understanding of the commitment, discipline and hard work needed to build a career in cinema. Having worked in several film industries and established herself as one of Indian cinema's most recognised performers, Sridevi was familiar with the pressures that come with being a public figure.
Her initial hesitation was also consistent with comments Janhvi had shared in earlier interviews. In 2024, the younger actor revealed that Sridevi had not wanted her to enter films. She had reportedly encouraged Janhvi to consider a more comfortable profession, even suggesting that she become a doctor. Sridevi was concerned about the comparisons her daughter would inevitably face because of her legacy.
Janhvi's Comments About Nose Surgery
Another interesting part of Janhvi's latest interview was her reference to nose surgery. The actor suggested jokingly that Sridevi's confidence in her potential increased after the procedure.
Janhvi also spoke about how cosmetic changes were connected to her growing-up years and her understanding of beauty. She acknowledged that her mother had influenced her relationship with appearance and beauty standards.
The subject of Janhvi's cosmetic procedures has attracted public attention for years. Her appearance has frequently been discussed on social media, with online users speculating about changes to her face. However, Janhvi has previously addressed the criticism and spoken about the guidance she received from her mother.
During an appearance on the Amazon Prime Video chat show Two Much last year, she discussed the scrutiny surrounding cosmetic procedures. She described her approach as careful and conservative, while also cautioning young girls against being influenced by unrealistic beauty standards promoted on social media.
Her comments highlighted the pressure that public figures, particularly women in the entertainment industry, can face over their appearance. They also reflected her concern that young people should not blindly follow online beauty trends or allow social media comparisons to shape their self-image.
Janhvi Made Her Debut With Dhadak in 2018
Janhvi Kapoor made her Bollywood debut with Shashank Khaitan's romantic drama Dhadak, which released in 2018. The film also starred Ishaan Khatter and was produced by Karan Johar's Dharma Productions.
The film was a Hindi adaptation of the successful Marathi movie Sairat, which explored love, caste discrimination and social barriers. Janhvi played the female lead, while Ishaan appeared opposite her.
Her Bollywood debut came at a particularly difficult time in her personal life. Sridevi passed away in February 2018, just months before Dhadak reached theatres. As a result, Janhvi had to face the public and industry expectations surrounding her first film without her mother by her side.
In earlier interviews, Janhvi has spoken about how she deliberately asked Sridevi not to visit the sets of Dhadak. She wanted to establish herself through her own work and avoid feeling that she had received an unfair advantage because of her mother's position in the industry.
In a 2023 interview, she described that decision as one of her biggest regrets, explaining that she had not allowed her mother to guide her on the sets even though Sridevi wanted to help her as a parent.
Sridevi's Legacy Continues to Influence Janhvi
Sridevi remains one of the most celebrated actresses in Indian cinema, with an extensive body of work across Hindi and regional-language films. Her performances in movies such as Sadma, Mr. India, Chandni, Lamhe, ChaalBaaz, English Vinglish and Mom established her reputation as a versatile performer.
For Janhvi, following in her mother's footsteps has meant dealing with both the advantages and expectations associated with being Sridevi's daughter. While her family background gave her an introduction to the film industry, it also brought constant comparisons with one of Indian cinema's biggest stars.
Over the years, Janhvi has spoken about wanting to build her own identity rather than compete with her mother's achievements. She has also acknowledged the emotional importance of carrying forward Sridevi's legacy.
Her latest revelation offers another personal glimpse into their relationship. Behind the public image of a celebrated film star was a mother who wanted her daughter to understand the demands of the profession before choosing it. And although Sridevi could not witness Janhvi's career develop after Dhadak, her advice and influence continue to remain an important part of the actor's journey.
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