Asha Parekh

“There was a time when the directors would sign me first and then go to the hero. There was a time when on my name a film used to be sold.”

“Though not into films, my family was associated with films. My grandparents financed films. They didn't like me getting into films. But, destiny willed it so.”

“My mother was very keen I learn dance and I learnt so many forms.”

“For me fortunately, my mother was my backbone. She was an independent and fierce woman, and she made sure I am too. She wanted me to be a brave person.”

“I did 500 shows of 'Chaula Devi' and 700 shows of 'Anarkali'. I never mixed the filmy style with classical arts and kept my stage performances pure and it was appreciated.”

“My mother was like a backbone for me in my life. She would always push me ahead.”

“Nowadays, all actresses wear gowns and trot all over the place. However, our sarees would look more elegant, and yet so appealing. So, my advice to all heroines is: start wearing sarees as well, to look more beautiful!”

“My parents had an inter-reli'gious marriage. My father is a Gujarati and my mother a Bohri Muslim. I am an only child. My par'ents loved me very much, but were very strict: I was a tomboy, always among boys, playing, fighting.”

“I was a dancer, so it was easy for me to dance in films. I had studied Kathak, Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi, Odisi and Kathakali much before I even thought of becoming an actor.”

“I lost my parents. I was totally alone and I had to manage everything all alone. It did put me in depression.”

“I feel blessed and lucky that some of the film industry's most magical and iconic songs where legendary composers and singers have collaborated have been filmed on me.”

“We were to work in a film titled 'Zabardast'. Unfortunately, this film didn't take off. After this, I never got another chance to work with him, I regret not having worked with Dilip Kumar.”