Women need to learn to value themselves. But that has to be inculcated in men as much as women.

As women, we are constantly criticising and judging ourselves in terms of our body, how we dress, what profession we take up, how we fare in that. Indian women are gifted with certain body types and features, which is healthy, and we should accept that.

I have never thought of winning an Oscar. Rather, I never thought I would get the Padma Shri. I think God has been kind to me. I think getting Oscar award is not too far away.

Women are blessed with energy - a power which is unique. I have been very fortunate to have played strong women and explored their strengths through my films.

I've learnt music, since this is a part and parcel of growing up in a traditional Tamil Brahmin family. In fact, I've even given three exams in music when I was young.

I have recurring nightmares about being in a Nazi concentration camp with all my family and constantly being sent to solitary confinement.

A lot of family members worked in the joint commodities family business. It was a classic case of capitalism at work and socialism at home.

My parents were immigrants who started a nursery as a way to get us kids through school. I learned around the dinner table about customer service and cash flow and paying bills.