Gauri Shinde on her casting coup with Sridevi for her debut film 'English Vinglish' and working with her husband and producer R Balki

It's been more than a decade that Sridevi last did a full-fledged Bollywood film. She is now all set to make her Bollywood comeback in Gauri Shinde's upcoming film. The debut director talks to us about working with Sri in her very first film, why she cast the actress and being R Balki's wife...

How was it working with Sridevi?
It was a fantastic experience... something that I cannot forget for a long time. No one can say that the actress has made a comeback after 15 long years! She is sharp and a great artiste. Through her acting, she proves that nothing has changed over all these years. I personally think that she has gotten better with time!


Why did you cast Sridevi for your debut film?
I wrote the story keeping my mom in mind and when it came to casting for the main role, I didn't think of anyone else but Sridevi. Initially, I was not sure whether she would agree to do the role, as she was not acting anymore. But after reading the script she promptly agreed.

Have you ever faced language problems yourself?
Everyone who goes to any foreign location suffers with linguistic problems. I too have faced them while visiting countries like Germany, Canada and Spain while shooting! This is what my film is all about to be able to connect with people without the hurdle of any language.

How is working with Balki as the producer of the film?
In spite of being the producer's wife, I did not get any special treatment during the filming, although I hoped I would! It was work as usual.


Your comment about female directors in Bollywood?
It is a misconception that womandirectors in Bollywood make female-centric films only! Look at Zoya Akthar or Farah Khan, they deliver out and out masala films. If the plot of the film is powerful enough, there isn't any need to categorise a film or a director as female or male-centric.