Mumbai, Nov 30 (NationPress) Acclaimed actress Shefali Shah commemorated 24 years since the release of her landmark film “Monsoon Wedding,” reflecting on her profound transformation as Ria.

In a recent Instagram post, the ‘Darlings’ actress shared insights on how this role became a voice for many women. Shefali illuminated themes of courage, resilience, and the enduring power of storytelling that resonates even today. Accompanying her heartfelt video from the film, she expressed, “Monsoon Wedding felt like one large family gathering for a wedding. We commenced our mornings with group yoga, followed by a sumptuous breakfast from @pagliji's home. After that, we participated in a workshop led by Naseer bhai, and post-lunch, Mira guided us through individual scenes. The film emerged as a cult classic, winning the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival. I never realized how profoundly this film and Ria would resonate with so many girls, both then and now.”

She continued, “The experience was cathartic, yet I was primarily focused on the creative journey. Later, I recognized how Ria embodied the latent strength within every woman. Guilt and shame are ingrained in us, and she disowned them, placing the blame on those who caused her pain. She shed her guilt, rejected shame, and stood up for herself, inadvertently becoming a voice for countless women who had long remained silent.”

Shefali further stated, “I may not know how many others found strength in Ria, but I do know that her character came to life, enriched by the stories of both known and unknown women.”

Reflecting on her journey, she pondered, “What have I done in my life that has been truly life-altering? I’m not a doctor, scientist, lawyer, activist, or anyone who directly improves lives. But what do I do? Nothing.”

“Years later in Delhi, a distinguished elderly couple approached me. The gentleman warmly complimented my work while his elegant wife stood silently, holding my hands. After expressing my gratitude, he mentioned, 'She experienced what Ria did. Thank you for giving her the voice and strength to speak after years of silence.'”

She concluded her post with, “If anyone saw us, they would have seen three individuals huddled together, tightly holding hands, tears in their eyes. Two women from different generations sharing a profound, silent strength. And this answers my lingering question: Sometimes, my work does make a difference.”

Directed by Mira Nair and penned by Sabrina Dhawan, “Monsoon Wedding” featured actors like Naseeruddin Shah, Lillete Dubey, Shefali Shah, and Vasundhara Das. Set against the backdrop of a traditional Punjabi Hindu wedding in Delhi, the film debuted in India on 30 November 2001.