Veteran actress Anita Kanwal has opened up about actors Akshaye Khanna and Arjun Rampal finally receiving the recognition they deserve as performers. In a candid conversation, she also admitted her hope for a career-defining role akin to the upcoming film Dhurandhar.
Anita Kanwal on Akshaye Khanna and Arjun Rampal
Speaking to Siddharth Kannan in a recent interview, Anita reflected on working with Akshaye Khanna in Laawaris and Arjun Rampal in Pyaar Ishq Aur Mohabbat. When Siddharth noted that both actors are now celebrated as underrated powerhouse performers who lacked early recognition, Anita responded with humor and honesty: “Mera viewpoint yeh hai ki mujhe kab ‘Dhurandhar’ milega?” she laughed.
The 'Dhurandhar' Inspiration
The actress praised the casting of Rakesh Bedi in the upcoming film Dhurandhar alongside Ranveer Singh. “Dhurandhar mein Rakesh Bedi... saare jitne bhi character actors hain... kitna achha kaam kiya unhone. One day I Googled the film and saw ‘starring Ranveer Singh and Rakesh Bedi’. I was so proud,” Anita shared. She added that actors never stop waiting for meaningful roles, regardless of age. “Issi umeed pe main jee rahi hoon ki mera bhi ‘Dhurandhar’ milega,” she said, citing legendary actress Zohra Sehgal as an example of someone who continued doing memorable work well into old age.
Lack of Roles for Older Actresses
Anita also spoke about the lack of substantial parts for older actresses in the industry. “There is no age unfortunately in our country, especially for women. Older characters likhe hi nahi jaate,” she said, pointing out that younger actresses are often cast in aged roles. She recalled her experiences with both Akshaye and Arjun on set, describing their personalities as completely different. Calling Akshaye “very serious” and reserved during the shooting of Laawaris, she said, “Hello ma’am... that is it.” In contrast, she described Arjun Rampal as “mast maula” and someone who was always joking around on the sets of Pyaar Ishq Aur Mohabbat.
Anita Kanwal on Rajiv Rai’s Stress
The actress further remembered filmmaker Rajiv Rai, who directed Pyaar Ishq Aur Mohabbat, and acknowledged that he appeared visibly stressed during that period amid alleged underworld threats. “He was very tense. I don’t know if that was his nature but he seemed very stressed,” she said. During the same conversation, Anita reflected on her own transformation over the years, from a hesitant newcomer to becoming outspoken and fearless today. “Success gives you the confidence to speak. Earlier I would think four times before saying anything,” she concluded.
