Completing a significant 13-year journey in the Indian film industry, Alia Bhatt is embracing a new chapter defined by deliberate choices and a transformed perspective, deeply influenced by her experience of motherhood. The acclaimed actress, in a recent conversation, revealed that while her approach to selecting roles remains driven by instinct, the pace of her professional life has consciously evolved.
Instinct Over Milestones: A Consistent Career Philosophy
Alia Bhatt firmly states that she does not view her career in defined phases or traditional milestones. Her method for choosing films has stayed remarkably consistent since her debut. "The way I chose films earlier is the same way I choose them now – by trying to do different things, setting myself up for new challenges and constantly putting myself outside my comfort zone," she explains. This instinct-led process continues to be her guiding principle.
However, a major shift has occurred in her working rhythm. Life expanding beyond film sets with the arrival of her daughter, Raha, has naturally altered her speed. "Of course, the volume and the speed at which I work now are different because I have a child," Alia admits. She expresses contentment with this new, more comfortable pace, preferring to focus her energy on one project at a time instead of juggling multiple films simultaneously as she did earlier in her career.
Embracing Action in Alpha and Cherishing Bhansali's Magic
Her upcoming film, 'Alpha', marks a genuine foray into the action genre for Alia, which she distinguishes from her role in Netflix's 'Heart of Stone'. "With Alpha, the opportunity to actually do action is something I’m supremely excited about," she clarifies. Undertaking intense physical sequences after becoming a mother added a profound layer to the experience. "Doing action after having a baby was very interesting because it allowed me to see what my body is capable of. It was such a learning experience, and it gave me a lot of respect for my body," the actress shares.
Looking ahead, one of her most anticipated projects is 'Love & War', which reunites her with director Sanjay Leela Bhansali and co-stars Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal. She describes it as a "very special film" and treasures the collaborative yet focused energy on Bhansali's sets. "Working with Sanjay sir is one of my most treasured experiences... It is one of the most fulfilling creative experiences I’ve had on a film set," Alia says, highlighting how her transformative role in 'Gangubai Kathiawadi' taught her to surrender completely to the director's visionary process.
Producer's Hat and a Balanced Outlook on Success
Alia's connection with cinema is expanding beyond acting. She is actively involved as a creative producer, developing projects set to go on floors next year. "I’m finding ways to stay connected to that magic in different ways now, not just as an actor," she states, showcasing her growing involvement in the creative ecosystem of filmmaking.
When it comes to the unpredictable nature of box office results and critical reception, Alia Bhatt maintains a balanced and philosophical outlook. She consciously chooses not to dwell on the binary of success and failure. "Success and failure are not in your hands. What is in your hands is learning, growing and finding a process that nurtures you as an artiste and as a person," she wisely concludes, emphasizing that filmmaking is always a collective effort of an entire crew working towards a shared vision.
