Amruta Khanvilkar is a known name in the Marathi film industry today. Apart from her acting prowess, Amruta has also earned praise for her sartorial choices. An industry that was, by her own admission, snubbed for its fashion sense, is now gearing up for an award in the category — Lokmat’s Maharashtra’s Most Stylish Awards. Ahead of the fashion fest, the actress talks about how the Marathi film industry has come a long way in the past few years.
How far do you think the Marathi industry has come?
Today, Marathi cinema has grown and even taken over Bollywood in some aspects. It’s not the small industry that it used be, it’s a large industry now. I am very proud that I got to see the Golden era of the industry with films such as Natrang, Sairat, etc. We have come a long way.
You are considered a style icon in the Marathi film industry. How do you take that compliment?
I am proud of the fact that people consider me a style icon. We always get to hear that Marathi actors don’t know how to dress up. But it’s not the same anymore. The mindset is changing. It makes me feel good.
What’s fashion for you?
For me, fashion is all about comfort. I know people say such cliché things all the time, but at the end of the day you should wear what looks good on you.
You’re doing great with Marathi films, but why don’t we see as much of you in Bollywood?
As Maharashtrian actors, we are very conscious about our decisions in Bollywood. It’s not cakewalk. Bollywood is vast and there is a lot of competition. I don’t want to be doing something small there. Besides, I don’t want to do anything that could affect my audiences here. If I get a really good offer, I will think about it. As of now, I haven’t got any offers that are exciting enough.
How do you see the competition between the Marathi and Hindi film industries?
It’s not about giving competition, it’s about creating your own space. With Marathi cinema, content is king. It has always been driven by content. I am lucky that I don’t have to leave home to seek a job elsewhere. The industry is here at home.
