Smriti Irani: Power, Politics, Acting, Childhood, Ahmedabad Crash & PM Modi | FO386 Raj Shamani

Smriti Irani, a well-known actor turned politician, sat down for a candid conversation, sharing insights into her journey from a middle-class upbringing to becoming a prominent figure in Indian politics. She touched upon the challenges of being a powerful woman, dealing with public criticism, and the unique pressures that come with leadership.

The Cost of Being a Powerful Woman

Irani discussed the societal expectations and the heightened scrutiny faced by women in positions of power. She noted that being outspoken or assertive can often be misinterpreted, leading to criticism. This is a common experience for women in leadership roles globally, often needing to be "doubly alert" to avoid being labelled as abrasive.

Key Takeaways:

• Double Standards: Women in power often face a double standard, where assertiveness is seen as aggression, and confidence can be mistaken for arrogance.
• Generational Differences: Older generations of women in politics often adopted a more subdued approach to avoid backlash, while younger women face different challenges in balancing ambition with public perception.
• Navigating Criticism: Irani shared that she doesn't let criticism or praise affect her deeply, viewing it as a natural part of public life. She believes that if people aren't talking about you, it means you're becoming irrelevant.

From Humble Beginnings to Political Arena

Coming from a middle-class background, Irani spoke about the inherent "chip on the shoulder" that can drive individuals to constantly prove themselves. This upbringing instilled a strong sense of ambition and tenacity, pushing her to achieve more than just a stable job and a secure pension.

She contrasted this with the way affluent families often teach their children to strategize and climb the corporate ladder, sometimes without the need for excessive hours. The middle-class upbringing, she explained, often emphasizes loyalty and hard work, but sometimes lacks the strategic maneuvering taught in wealthier circles.

Power, Perception, and Politics

Irani offered a unique perspective on power, defining it not as a position or an individual, but as a "state of mind." She believes that one's perception of power is internal and that true power lies in not succumbing to the perceived superiority of others, regardless of their wealth or status.

She also touched upon the public's perception of politicians, noting that people often approach them with problems, viewing them as sources of hope and solutions. This expectation, she feels, can sometimes lead to people being seen as less human and more as symbols of hope.

Personal Resilience and Public Duty

Irani shared deeply personal stories of balancing public duty with family emergencies. She recounted working through personal tragedies, including her father's stroke and a miscarriage, while fulfilling her parliamentary obligations. This resilience, she explained, comes from a deep sense of responsibility not just to her role but also to the people who depend on her.

She also spoke about her early career in television, returning to work shortly after childbirth and even a miscarriage, driven by professional commitments. This dedication highlights her ability to compartmentalize personal hardship and public responsibility.

Lessons from Leadership

Reflecting on her time working with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Irani described Modi as a "24/7 driven" leader who is highly focused and professional. She noted that his approach is very direct, with no room for small talk or unnecessary pleasantries.

Vajpayee, on the other hand, she described as a "philosophical poet politician" who offered more space for personal and cultural evolution. She highlighted that the BJP has a rigorous process of testing and training its leaders, with feedback and performance reviews being integral to career progression.

Returning to Acting and Future Endeavours

After years in politics, Irani expressed excitement about returning to acting, viewing it as an opportunity to explore different facets of her personality and to convey meaningful messages through her craft. She also mentioned her ongoing work with the World Economic Forum on gender equality, showcasing her continued commitment to public service beyond electoral politics.

She concluded by emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself and not getting swayed by external validation, whether it's popularity or criticism. Her journey is a testament to resilience, ambition, and a deep-seated commitment to public service.