Interview - Dr Vishnuvardhan is still with us: Bharathi

Yesteryear actress and the wife of legendary late Dr Vishnuvardhan, Bharati Vishnuvardhan is all set to celebrate her husband's 62nd birthday on September 18. Like last two years, she with the support of her family and friends, is doing charity and conducting events in the memory of the Sahasa Simha.

As we called her for a telephonic interview, Bharathi Vishnuvardhan, in a calm tone, spoke to us on the 62nd birthday celebration of Dr Vishnuvardhan and various topics. Here are the excerpts from the interview:

Earlier, apart from charity, you held a special screening of Dr Vishnuvardhan's memorable movies for three days. How are you celebrating his birthday this time?
We are having a photo exhibition of Dr Vishnuvardhan for three days at Chitra Kala Parishat, which started on Sunday (September 16). Professor Baraguru Ramchandrapa is the chief guest of the event, still photographer KV Somashekar (movie Vamsha Vruksha) inaugurated the event. Tara-Lakshmi Gopalaswamy and Sudharani lit the lamps to start the proceedings of the speech programme. We have also organised special programs called Janashakti and Janashakti, which will provide free health check-ups, medicines for various health-related issues for poor and senior citizens, at Abhiman Studios. Many social organisations have joined us to create health awareness and pro-environmental campaigns.

What is the status of the Vishnu memorial at Abhiman Studios?
The government has not cleared it yet. We are putting pressure on the government and Ambaresh is having talks with the officials. We are trying our best, and many including the president of Kanteerava Studios have requested the government to clear it at the earliest. Hopefully, we will have a better picture in the next two days.

What would you like to do in the future in the memory of Dr Vishnuvardhan?
We wish to take one-step at a time. Firstly, we should finish what we had planned earlier. It is only then we can plan about the future.

Isn't life been difficult without Vishnuvardhan?
It is not difficult because he is still with us. All these are happening because of him, through him. He is the guiding force behind us. I believe as long as we are alive, he will be with us.

How do you keep yourself busy these days?
Vishnuvardhan started Sneha Loka to encourage talented cricketers. It is a platform for youngsters to prove their skills. It was his dream and I am looking after it. Likewise, there are many things, which are keeping me busy. It is my responsibility to manage it until my last breath. After all, he is the man who is doing these through us.

In your long career, you have acted in a wide variety of roles. Having said that, is there any role that you had loved but could not do it?
Not one but there are many. An artist will never have satisfaction in his life because art is like an ocean. As you pass by, you will discover many precious stones, jewels, etc. It is unlimited. Somewhere at the bottom of the heart, every artist feels that he could have done that role or he would have done this role better.

You had witnessed the glories of Kannada film industry in your times. But today, it is believed that the standard has seen downfall...
We are moving in a circle. One which was on top has to come down and vice-versa. Time can only answer it, as we don't have any control over it. It is predetermined and I am sure that the Sandalwood will return to the glory days. Good times will be back, and changes are constant in the world.

Whom do you choose, if you were asked to pick one actress from the current generation who would come up to your level?
Nobody can predict it. It is in the individuals' hands. There are many talented actresses in the industry, who are really working hard. Every human will have a good time. Whoever is able to use it to his/her fullest ability and handle the success, can achieve great feats in life. Disciple, dedication and hardworking are ingredients to be successful. However, the underlining point is that luck plays a vital role in one's success.

What would you like to say to younger generation actresses?
The present lot of actresses are very intelligent than us. They are good in every aspect and they are aware of what is best for their career.

Are you acting in any film now?
No. I am just acting in a television serial titled Bhagyavantaru.

Janardhan Rao Solanki, who had authored two books earlier on Dr Vishnuvardhan, is ready with his new book ‘Karunamayi Dr Vishnuvardhan', a compilation of special moments shared by people who knew him...
It shows his love and affection towards Dr Vishnuvardhan.