Quotes from Urmila Matondkar

I never planned my career in the film industry, in acting. Yes, I always liked acting, but never ever I thought it would be my profession. I wanted to study, since my family has an academic background.

I don't like cooking and don't cook until I am forced to. Then I expect everyone around to appreciate what I dish out.

In our own country, you can't divide people.

I have never shied away from experimental roles.

I like seafood like prawns and fish - I can live on prawns!

The first lesson of politics or, at least, democracy is that it is a government by the people and for the people, isn't it? What makes the person a big leader or a big name is only what the person has done for the people.

Dancing is never excruciating as preparing for it is. For instance, the song 'Chamma Chamma' had heavy outfits and even more heavy jewellery. 'Kambakht Ishq' was shot in extreme heat during the day and a rain sequence in the night, so we were literally drenched throughout the night.

My life has been inspired by Mahatma Gandhi from the days of my childhood.

I have tried to generate hope and trust as a person.

Glamour is a very small aspect of being an actress.

Being a host is about being able to communicate and build up a rapport with the audience.

'Masoom' was like a picnic for all of us. We kids just wanted to have fun acting in the film. We never realised when the film was completed. When we did, we realised the party was over.

'Rangeela' was a very wonderful film, a great experience.

I thrive on cheese and champagne.

I always thought that marriage needs to happen at the right time, for the right reasons, and with the right person.

Few people know much about me. I've been so quiet that I'm known as a recluse.

I am not fond of red meat.

If an artiste has the conviction to carry something off, he or she can do anything.

I have been exposed to different kinds of Marathi and Hindi music, classical music, and English songs since childhood.

My father was a banker, and my mother worked for the state government.

As you grow older, maturity naturally comes to you. And it shows on your face. It's true not only about looks, but your maturity should also reflect in your performances.

Stars have no say in the release of a film. There are too many factors involved.

My husband is as much a proud Muslim as I am a proud Hindu. That's the beauty of our nation - and our marriage, too.

I don't think about how many times how many heroines have said 'I love you' to how many heroes on screen and that I am also doing the same. It is how differently I can say the same thing in my own style or how I can bring a new element into it.