Going after her heart

Jaya Bachchan made waves after a long break from celluloid with Hazaar Chaurasi Ki Maa. She then had a pivotal role in Khalid Mohamed's Fiza.

Now, in 2001, she is back after 18 years, starring opposite real life husband Amitabh Bachchan. They last worked in Silsila together.

In conversation with Latika Sidana:

What is your role in K3G?

I play Nandini Raichand, a mother of two sons, one of which is adopted. I am so close to him that I can actually sense his thoughts. In the film, I encourage my sons to go after what their hearts say.

You have been paired with Amitabh Bachchan after nearly two decades. How did this happen?

We found the roles very interesting; plus Karan is a very talented director.

You first came back on screen after a very long time in Hazaar Chaurasi Ki Maa. Why the gap?

The film is based on a novel by Mahasweta Devi. Govind Nihalani narrated the script to me. I liked it so I did it.

You have also acted in Fiza as Hrithik and Karisma's mother...

Yes both of them are very good. I liked my role in the film. I have even said that Santosh Sivan (the cinematographer) is the hero of the film and Khalid Mohamed (director), the heroine.

What are your forthcoming films?

Kadal, Main Prem Ki Deewani Hoon, Koi Mere Dil Se Pooche, a remake of a Telugu hit, and a Bengali film which is untitled in which I play Abhishek's mother.

Are you here to stay for good?

Yes if the roles are interesting.