On the occasion of Women’s Day, we’ve caught up with Tanishaa Mukerji for a quick chat about the women in her life (her mother, Tanuja; and her sister, Kajol), the love she gets from her fans, life post Bigg Boss, and – of course – beau Armaan Kohli! Read on for our entire chat with the woman who dons many hats – actress, producer, and reality show contestant!
Team MissMalini (Team MM): First of all, happy Women’s Day! What does this celebration mean to you?
Tanishaa Mukerji (TM): In my family, everyday is women’s day. But I think having this one day focuses everyone’s energy towards treating the women in their lives like princesses. Unfortunately, in this busy world, we need the reminder.
Team MM: What roles have the 2 important women, your mother and your sister, played in your life?
TM: My mother is my guru and my sister is my inspiration. They keep me grounded and are my comfort.
Team MM: What’s the number one thing you think you’ve learned from the two of them?
TM: I learnt to walk my own path and believe in myself as they have believed in me.
Team MM: Is it more difficult, as a woman, being a participant on a show like Bigg Boss?
TM: By asking this question, you’re implying that women are not equal or better than men, so I will have to say “no” because I believe that we are stronger than men.
Team MM: What about in an industry like Bollywood? Is it more difficult to be taken seriously as a woman?
TM: In Bollywood – or anywhere in the world – you are taken as seriously as you take yourself.
Team MM: How has life changed for you post Bigg Boss?
TM: On the show, people saw me for who I am and after the show life’s changed because I have received a lot of positivity from around the world. The love and respect I’ve earned from the show is overwhelming. Women on the streets come give me hugs and it’s wonderful. I am truly blessed.
Team MM: You’ve gotten a lot of love from your fans (especially “TanMan” fans), so what does this kind of love feel like? Do you ever feel awkward about your personal relationship being such a big talking point for so many people?
TM: My whole life was on TV for people to see and judge 24/7 for 105 days. Why would I feel awkward? I chose to be in the public eye, I chose for people to know me. I am proud of who I am and don’t feel awkward about it.
Team MM: We’ve heard some rumours of you having gotten married to Armaan. Can you clarify, please?
TM: Ha ha, Malini. No, I am not married.
Team MM: What’s the sweetest thing that Armaan has ever done for you?
TM: The sweetest thing Armaan has done for me is organise Vaishnodevi Darshan for my birthday. I could not be more blessed.
Team MM: Finally, what message would you like to send to all the ladies out there who follow you and your work?
TM: To all the wonderful ladies out there, I just want to say be all woman. Don’t feel the need to compare yourself with a man or behave like one to be strong. Find your inner strength and shine.