‘Madhuri is one of the greatest stars’

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She is chirpy, bubbly and has been stealing hearts with her effervescent smile and acting prowess. But the actress is now all set to surprise viewers by playing the dark character of a conniving politician in the much-anticipated film Gulab Gang.

Juhi Chawla will be seen sharing screen space with Madhuri Dixit for the first time in their common career span of 27 years. “After a long time, this golden opportunity has come where Madhuri and I will be seen sharing the screen. The script of the film is quite strong and we are just the opposites in the film — Madhuri being the protagonist while I am playing the antagonist,” shares Juhi, who was in the capital for the launch of cosmetologist Dr Jamuna Pai’s clinic.
According to reports, Gulab Gang, directed by debutant Soumik Sen and produced by Anubhav Sinha, is loosely based on Uttar Pradesh’s famous Sampat Pal’s Gulabi Gang, which works for the upliftment of women.
Back in the late 1980’s and 1990’s, the two actresses were considered arch-rivals. Recalling the time of their rivalry, Juhi chuckles, “In those days, when Madhuri and I were apparently competitors, whenever we met at any function or on the sets of a film, we merely exchanged pleasantries. But now it has been a wonderful experience to work with Madhuri, who is one of the greatest stars of Bollywood.”
Sharing her initial inhibitions about playing the role, Juhi says, “When Shoumik approached me with the script of the film, I was a little apprehensive about playing a dark character, as I had never done that before and I wasn’t too sure if it suits my personality. Then Shoumik convinced me saying that I am not supposed to play Gabbar, and just give it my best shot, which I have tried doing in the film.”
Sharing her love for the city Juhi says, “Delhi is a very charming and refreshing place. The national capital has so much to boast of — be it the winter season or the lush green parks here or areas like Parliament Street, India Gate and other historical monuments which make you feel so proud about your nation.”