In the iconic film ‘3 Idiots’ (2009), the character Amir Khan essays, tells his cronies ‘If you want to assess a person’s real character, watch how he treats his sub-ordinates and helpers’. Empathy and kindness in their dealings is the hallmark of true leaders and reveals the humane side of people. Yet, often those in positions of power hardly deem it fit to even acknowledge the existence of the staff employed to carry out menial duties. In difficult situations, however, they’re sometimes expected to take the blame and protect their owners and bosses from any harm that may befall them.
But here’s an act of courage and selflessly standing up to protect one’s staff that seems scripted like a film scene and involves a renowned actress, none other than 49 year old Raveena Tandon. Having earlier earned the sobriquet of ‘Mast Mast Girl’ for the hit number ‘Tu Cheez Badi Hai..’ from the hit film ‘Mohra’ (1994) as a glamorous star, with time she went on to meaningful roles on big screen & OTT. She also takes part in social work and was awarded ‘Padmashri’ in 2023 for her contribution to art and cinema.
About a week ago it was reported that she was involved in an alleged road incident which took an ugly turn. The story goes that returning home in her chauffeur driven car, she found herself in an altercation with a group of people who alleged they were brushed by her vehicle. What had unfolded was after dropping her off, the driver was reversing the car as three people were walking past and were allegedly hit or got touched by it.
When she sensed that trouble was brewing outside her house as a mob had collected and were threatening her driver, she came out, spoke and reasoned with them and in the process got shoved around too. Facing a traumatic time, Raveena continued to stand by her driver and save him from the mob. Through her persuasion the matter finally got resolved and ended up with no one filing a complaint with the police authorities.
For those who are movie buffs, do watch a gripping film ‘Patna Shukla’ on Hotstar which has Raveena playing a crusading lawyer who goes to any extent to get justice for her clients who are mostly underdogs. It seems she has the same mettle in her real life too ! Occasions don’t make heroes or cowards, they simply unveil them to the eyes of others.
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