Madhoo explains why 90s actresses had longer careers; Says today's newcomers face instant judgement

Actress Madhoo began her acting career opposite Ajay Devgn in 'Phool Aur Kaante' (1991) which marked the beginning of a successful run that saw her work across multiple languages and industries.Madhoo has now opened up about how the film industry has changed over the years, particularly for actresses. Comparing her generation with the current one, she said performers from the 1990s had the advantage of gradually finding their footing, while today's newcomers are expected to deliver from their very first appearance.Speaking to IANS, the actress said the expectations placed on young actors have increased significantly.

She believes the industry has become far more competitive, leaving little room for mistakes or gradual improvement.

Madhoo says 1990's actresses all have a long career span

Discussing the difference between past and present generations, Madhoo explained that actresses from the 1990s often enjoyed much longer careers because they were given opportunities to evolve over time. She said many of her contemporaries successfully reinvented themselves and continued working for years.

Madhoo told IANS, "We all have a long career span. I left voluntarily in 9 years, but the other actresses continued, and they transformed and continued, and it was a long span. Today, actresses don't have that long span. They look amazing in their first film, they have a few more films, and then the new girl comes. So, that was the advantage of not starting out perfect, and today, the advantage is that you start out perfect.

There is a lot of support."According to the actress, while newcomers today are technically more polished, the pressure to succeed immediately is much greater.

Second chances made a difference

Madhoo also reflected on her own journey in the industry. She said audiences in the 1990s were more patient and willing to accept an actor's growth over multiple films. That acceptance, she believes, allowed performers to improve naturally with experience.She further said, "If the audience did not like us, we used to get a second chance, third chance. During my 9-year career, every movie of mine was like a training ground for me. So, from being 'not so good' I had a chance to become 'good'. The audience gave me that time, and I had the room to improve because I was not the best when I came in 'Phool Aur Kaante', but people connected, and then I had a chance to correct my externals like hair and makeup.

But today, people come perfect, so either you impress in your first attempt, or you are out." She added that every film became a learning experience, helping her become more confident both as an actress and as a performer.

A successful journey in Indian cinema

Madhoo starred in several acclaimed films, including 'Roja', 'Allari Priyudu', 'Yoddha', and 'Gentleman'. Her performances in these films established her as one of the leading actresses of the 1990s and earned her a loyal fan following.