Ratna Pathak Shah reflects on the '80s; admits not being as accomplished as Smita Patil, Shabana Azmi

Ratna Pathak Shah reflects on the '80s; admits not being as accomplished as Smita Patil, Shabana Azmi

Ratna Pathak Shah found 2023 to be a successful year with appearances in three web series and a film. Starting with the crime drama series Trial by Fire and leading the comedy series Happy Family: Conditions Apply, she continued with the mystery thriller Charlie Chopra & The Mystery Of Solang Valley and concluded the year with the adventure film Dhak Dhak.

Reflecting on the initial phase of her career, Ratna humorously acknowledged her small role in Shyam Benegal's Mandi (1983), stating she was a "total hanger-on" during that time. She reminisced about her minimal part in Ketan Mehta's Mirch Masala, acknowledging that filmmakers didn't recognize her potential at the time. Ratna also mentioned working on a play with Ketan Mehta at 18, admitting she was "even more of an idiot" back then.

Despite initial challenges, Ratna emphasized the learning experience during that era, observing and absorbing knowledge from established actors like Smita Patil and Shabana Azmi. She acknowledged her progress and growth over the years, stating that starting at Point A and progressing to Points B, C, and D signifies personal development in the industry.