As a child, my parents made me feel really special and wanted: Dia Mirza

Actor Dia Mirza, who turned a year older yesterday, says her Iranian film doing well is the best birthday gift, also talks about being a married working woman in a made dominated industry.

As actors leading hectic lives, it is often not possible to make time for special occasions. But Dia Mirza says that no matter how busy she is, celebrating her birthday is top most priority. Growing up, her parents made every birthday memorable for her and this time; her husband Sahil Sangha whisked her away for a day trip to an undisclosed destination.

Dia Mirza was whisked away for her birthday by husband Sahil Sangha. (HT Photo)

“I was born seven years after my mother was told that she couldn’t conceive so, as a child, my parents made me feel really special and wanted. My birthday was a huge deal and it was always about giving me a memory. This year has been fulfilling and I only have gratitude for all the opportunities I received,” says the former beauty pageant winner.

Her Iranian film, Salaam Mumbai opened to a great response and that in itself is the best gift for the actor. “I did not expect such unprecedented love because I didn’t know if this experiment would pay off. This is the first Iranian film to have been shot in India where the leading lady doesn’t wear a hijab. It was a tough part because it was so unlike the urban woman that I am,” she says. Dia is also most excited about heading to Iran as her father; an artist had held exhibitions and workshops in the country when she was a child. “I was fascinated by the stories that my father told me. I want to try and relive that memory.”

Although the quality of roles being offered to female actors has improved, Dia says, the industry still remains to be male-dominated. “There is a rebellion of sorts. In the 80s and 90s women were reduced to just being commodities, but now with thinking actors lie Alia, Deepika and Priyanka there is light at the end of the tunnel.”