Veteran Bollywood actress Manisha Koirala is not just a performer—she’s also a voice of change, strength, and wisdom. In a recent exclusive interview with Filmfare, the actress spoke openly about her thoughts on beauty, aging in the entertainment industry, and how she has grown more comfortable in her skin with time.
Though the conversation began with her views on movies, recent cinema, and the rise of OTT platforms, it gradually moved toward deeper subjects like ageism in Bollywood, the pressure to undergo cosmetic procedures, and embracing real change in the industry.
“I’ve Been Tempted, But It’s Not for Me”
When asked whether she’s ever felt the pressure to go under the knife, Manisha didn’t hesitate to admit that she had been tempted. “I have to say I have tried to do many things that are a fad nowadays, just to feel like I belong," she confessed. "But it doesn’t work for me. Some things are just not meant for me, and I’ve moved on.”
Her honesty is refreshing in an industry where physical appearance is often prioritized over talent or experience. Manisha has tried certain beauty trends, not out of insecurity, but from a desire to stay in sync with industry norms. However, she realized that authenticity matters more than following the crowd.
Fad Diets and Age Pressure
She also admitted to having been drawn into fad diets, echoing what many women—celebrity or not—go through as they age in the spotlight. But her tone was not bitter; it was reflective.
“Firstly, I think ageism is something we need to talk about,” she said. “Because it puts people in a box. You’re looking at someone from a very narrow perspective.”
Her views highlight a bigger issue in not just Bollywood, but in many industries globally—where women often feel invisible after a certain age. But Manisha isn’t accepting that narrative quietly.
Leading at 50: A Heeramandi Milestone
Manisha's recent role in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Heeramandi stands as proof that things are changing. Playing one of the main leads in such a prestigious project at the age of 50 is not just a casting decision—it’s a powerful statement.
“People didn’t expect a 50-year-old actress to be one of the main leads in Heeramandi. If Sanjay believed in ageism, it wouldn’t have happened,” she said.
She praises Bhansali’s vision and courage to challenge stereotypes. “It needs guts, it needs vision, and conviction to go past that,” she added. “Otherwise, once you cross a certain age, you’re automatically pushed to the periphery.”
Embracing the Periphery—and Then Breaking Free
Manisha reflected on how she once made peace with playing supporting roles. “I thought if this is the way of life, I need to be okay with this.”
But then something changed. A shift in the industry, a rise of new platforms, and a changing audience mindset made her realize that the narrative was evolving.
A New Era for Women in Film
“There’s a shift in terms of beauty standards,” Manisha explained. “Big brands are now casting older women. OTT platforms have opened doors. You now see older men and women doing incredible work. People who might’ve been sitting at home now have a stage again.”
She also gave credit to the younger generation, whom she sees as instrumental in driving this change. “They’re the ones starting the conversations—about Me Too, ageism, pay parity. These are all about equal rights.”
More Than Just an Actress
What stands out about Manisha Koirala is her grounded nature. She’s someone who’s navigated fame, illness, and reinvention. Today, she’s not only acting but also advocating for change—using her voice to encourage inclusivity and resilience in an industry that often struggles to evolve.
Her journey is not just inspiring for actors or women in cinema—it’s empowering for anyone who’s been told they’re too old, too late, or not relevant anymore.
