Kajol, the acclaimed actress known for her powerful performances and memorable roles in Indian cinema, recently opened up about a pivotal moment in her career during a promotional interview for her upcoming film *Do Patti*. In a candid discussion, she shared a surprising revelation: there was a significant period in her life when she seriously contemplated quitting acting altogether after wrapping up her third film at the remarkably young age of 18. This challenging phase in her career was marked by feelings of exhaustion and uncertainty, and it was none other than the Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan who played a crucial role in encouraging her to continue pursuing her passion for acting.
In *Do Patti*, Kajol is set to take on a groundbreaking and transformative role as a police officer. This film marks a significant milestone for the actress, as it is the first time she will don a uniform for a character on screen. The role requires Kajol to step out of her comfort zone and adopt a new approach to her acting process, showcasing her remarkable versatility and commitment to her craft. Fans and critics alike are eagerly anticipating her performance, as Kajol has consistently demonstrated her ability to embody diverse and powerful characters throughout her illustrious career.
Reflecting on her early struggles in the film industry, Kajol recounted her experiences while filming *Udhaar Ki Zindagi*, which was her third project in Bollywood. At that time, she was still in the early stages of her career, trying to navigate the complexities of the industry as a young actress. She recalled a significant conversation with Shah Rukh Khan, who had become a close friend and mentor during that period. His encouragement and wisdom had a profound impact on her outlook. "So I did a film long back called *Udhaar Ki Zindagi*. That was, I think, my third film. I was very new. I must have been about 17 or 18 at that time. And I remember, I finished the film. And I remember before that, Shah Rukh was like, 'You know you just have to learn how to act,'" she shared, emphasizing the importance of growth and development in her early career.
Despite Shah Rukh's encouragement, Kajol found herself overwhelmed and feeling burnt out after completing *Udhaar Ki Zindagi*. She vividly described her emotional state during that challenging time, expressing her exhaustion and desire for a break. “I was like, what is this? What is he talking about? Of course, I'm doing a fabulous job. But I did this film called *Udhaar Ki Zindagi*. And I'm finishing the film. And I remember turning around and telling my mother at that time, 'You know, mom, I'm done. Wow. I'm burnt out. At the tender age of 18-and-a-half, I am done. I cannot move anymore. I cannot cry anymore. I cannot put glycerine anymore. I can't, I don't want to do these films anymore. I want to do, you know, four scenes, ten songs.' I wanted to do such films. And I signed four films like that. So that's where *Gunda Raj*, *Hulchul*, all these films came out from. I learned the technique of acting after that,” she reflected, sharing the honest struggles of a young actress navigating the pressures of the industry.
Kajol’s journey is a powerful testament to the challenges faced by many young actors in the competitive world of cinema, where they must balance personal aspirations with industry expectations. Her candid admission sheds light on the mental and emotional toll that the profession can take on artists, especially those who start their careers at a young age. The encouragement she received from Shah Rukh Khan serves as a poignant reminder of the significance of mentorship and support in any creative field, particularly in an industry as demanding and high-pressure as Bollywood.
*Do Patti*, which also stars the talented Kriti Sanon, is set to premiere on Netflix on October 25, 2024. The film promises to deliver a captivating and engaging experience, showcasing Kajol's remarkable talent in a role that is distinct from her previous work. This new character represents a significant evolution in her career and reinforces her status as a versatile actress capable of taking on a wide range of roles. Fans are eagerly looking forward to her portrayal of the police officer, as it reflects not only her acting prowess but also her ability to adapt to new challenges and narratives.
The anticipation surrounding *Do Patti* highlights Kajol's enduring appeal and the excitement her fans feel for her return to the screen. As she embarks on this new chapter in her career, Kajol continues to inspire aspiring actors and audiences alike with her dedication, resilience, and willingness to take on bold new roles that challenge conventional norms in the film industry.
