Raveena Tandon Breaks Her Silence: “One Broken Engagement Still Stuck to My Name”

From surviving gossip headlines to reclaiming her narrative, Raveena opens up about her journey, motherhood, media scrutiny, and the evolving role of women in Bollywood.

In a candid new interview with ANI, Bollywood icon Raveena Tandon opened up about her career, her personal life, and the way the industry has evolved over the years. Speaking with Smita Prakash on the ANI Podcast, the veteran actress spoke frankly about topics most stars avoid—her past relationships, media judgment, and the double standards women continue to face in showbiz.

Raveena, who recently received the Padma Shri for her contribution to Indian cinema, reflected on how gossip magazines of the 1990s sensationalized her private life, often focusing more on rumours than her performances. She expressed frustration that, even decades later, she is still remembered for her broken engagement with Akshay Kumar rather than her long career. “Girls change boyfriends every week, people get divorced, people move on with their lives—so what’s the big deal?” she said.

The actress also revisited her decision to adopt two daughters, Pooja and Chhaya, when she was just 21. Calling it one of the most fulfilling choices of her life, she shared that motherhood gave her a sense of purpose and grounded her in an industry driven by glamour and competition.

Raveena didn’t shy away from calling out the harsh reality of her early years in Bollywood either. She recalled being body-shamed by gossip columns that once referred to her as “thunder thighs.” “Some of the same people who used to ridicule us back then now wear the feminist badge,” she remarked, highlighting the hypocrisy that persists in public discourse.

Despite her criticisms of the old media ecosystem, Raveena said she’s hopeful about today’s generation of women in film—calling them more outspoken, confident, and unafraid to challenge stereotypes. She also defended her right to express opinions on political and social matters, saying, “Why shouldn’t I speak up for my country? Being an actor doesn’t mean giving up your voice.”

Reflecting on her generation of actresses, Raveena proudly added, “We were the real trendsetters. Everyone had their individuality, and that’s what made us stand out.”

Her interview painted the picture of a woman who has evolved with time yet remains fiercely honest about her struggles and triumphs. Raveena Tandon continues to prove that authenticity, strength, and resilience never go out of style.

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