Aditi Rao Hydari on passion, presence, and the quiet strength behind her most powerful roles.

There is a quiet grace about Aditi Rao Hydari that is instantly disarming. Known for her luminous screen presence and the effortless depth she brings to her roles, Aditi has built a career that spans languages and industries—yet what stands out most is her unflinching curiosity. Meeting her at the festival, one realises quickly that her artistry comes not from calculation, but from a willingness to surrender to the moment.
When asked about the impact of working across Hindi, Tamil, Telugu and Malayalam cinema, Aditi reflects thoughtfully. “I grew up in a multicultural environment, so cinema for me has always been about universality. Storytelling and emotion matter more than language. I feel blessed to have immersed myself in so many different cultures and worked with visionary directors. Each time, it feels natural, like I am surrendering to their world—and that surrender creates cinema, which then becomes legacy.”
Her approach to acting, she admits, is still evolving. “As artists, we never stop learning. I like to come to set with a clean slate and surrender to the director’s vision. Maybe I have changed over the years, but I do not want to be too aware of it. The five-year-old in me—thanks to my mother and grandmother—keeps me curious, and that curiosity keeps me learning.”
Dream roles, she says with a laugh, are less important than “dream directors.” “A visionary director can see you in a way that transforms you. They bring out your potential, push you further, and often, they are the ones who give you your so-called dream role.”

It is a philosophy that explains her reputation for bringing unusual depth to her characters. “I don’t think about it consciously,” she insists. “I feel deeply, I live in the moment, and I surrender. When you have a strong script, a great director, and incredible co-actors, magic happens.”
Outside of acting, Aditi is just as animated about creativity. “I think I will forever be a curious five-year-old. I believe in finding music in the noise and light in the darkness. I am a creative being, I need to create all the time—but it is important to do that while making people around you happy, and always with kindness.”
When asked what she might have done if not acting, her answer is instant. “I can’t imagine myself doing anything else. I grew up around music and dance, but cinema is the most beautiful amalgamation of all the arts. For me, the fuel is being in front of the camera—it’s magical.”
On stardom, she is candid. “Stardom is what people see in us. For me, it’s just the by-product of acting. I love the fame and appreciation, but my real joy lies in performing and telling stories.”
This year marks her first visit to Australia, and Melbourne has clearly won her over. “It’s beautiful and diverse. I felt safe the moment I arrived, and as a woman, which matters. I have wanted to come for so long, and I hope I can travel more across the country.”
And finally, the inevitable question—her favourite food. She smiles. “I love food of all kinds, but Indian food always comes first, followed by Asian cuisine. I am lucky I have a small appetite because I love eating too much!”
As the conversation ends, it becomes evident that Aditi Rao Hydari is not simply an actress admired for her grace on screen—she is a woman fuelled by curiosity, creativity, and kindness. And perhaps it is this rare combination that allows her to light up every role she takes on, leaving audiences wanting more.
By Tonee Sethi