Veteran actress Aruna Irani recently reflected on one of the most challenging phases of her career, revealing how she experienced a sudden drought of work for three years after starring in blockbuster films. Speaking candidly on the reality show 'Tum Ho Naa , Ghar Ki Superstar', she shared her story of resilience, self-belief, and determination that helped her rebuild her career.
Early Success and Sudden Setback
Recalling her early triumphs, Aruna Irani said, “When I did ‘Bombay to Goa’ and ‘Caravan’, both movies were superhits. They ran for years at Super Cinema and Dreamland theatres.” Despite this massive success, she found herself without any work for three years. When an opportunity finally arrived, she chose to embrace it instead of dwelling on her past achievements.
Embracing a Humble Beginning
Aruna described her comeback: “And then suddenly, for three years, I had no work at all. And when I finally started working again, what did I start with? I performed a lavani in a Marathi film. I did it with courage. I told myself, ‘No, I have to go. I have to show people that I am still alive. I can’t just sit in a studio and say, “I’m here, please cast me.”’ So God gave me an opportunity through Dada Kondke’s Marathi film ‘Aandhla Marto Dola’. That reminded me of my own journey. At that time, I could have thought, ‘How will I ever do this kind of work? I was once a heroine opposite Amitabh ji, and today I am doing a lavani for Rs 2,500.’ But I told myself, ‘No, I have to go.’ And that decision turned out to be so fruitful because there I met people who would change my career.”
A Turning Point
The actress explained how accepting that role became a turning point. “There I met Raj Kohli ji, and from there, work started coming my way again.” Host Rajeev Khandelwal highlighted the lesson in Aruna’s story, emphasizing perseverance and humility. “Look, even after delivering two superhit films, she did not get work. Despite that, she never lost courage. And after that, as we can all learn from her journey, no work is ever too small.”
An Inspiration for Generations
Paying tribute to her decades-long contribution, Rajeev added: “We will always remember Aruna ji. For so many years now, whether there were storms, challenges, good times or bad times, she has stood firm through it all for the last 70–71 years. She is known as a great actress, but I think for many people she is also an inspiration, proving that one should never give up. You must not surrender. Everything in life comes to an end one day, but the important thing is never to lose hope and never to give up.”
Aruna Irani’s story serves as a powerful reminder that success is rarely a straight path. Even after reaching the top, setbacks can come unexpectedly—but resilience, courage, and the willingness to start again can often lead to an even stronger comeback.
