Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Jul 23: Actress Shilpa Shetty, currently seen as a judge on Super Dancer Chapter 5, has opened up about the women who have shaped her personally and professionally. Reflecting on her journey in the entertainment industry, Shilpa named three legendary actresses—Helen, Rekha, and Madhuri Dixit—as her eternal muses.

“There have always been three women in my life who have inspired me—Helen Ji, Rekha Ji, and Madhuri Dixit Ji,” she shared with heartfelt admiration. Shilpa explained that Helen’s ability to make every costume and move look graceful and never out of place left a lasting impression on her.

When it came to Rekha, Shilpa praised her emotive power, saying, “Rekha Ji could speak volumes just with her eyes—her lip-sync and expressions were phenomenal.” As for Madhuri Dixit, she credited the superstar for influencing her dance style, noting, “I actually learned to dance by watching her videos. Every one of her performances had such class.”

Beyond the silver screen, Shilpa’s deepest admiration lies with someone much closer to home—her mother, Sunanda Shetty. Recalling her early days in the industry, Shilpa said, “My mother did far more than anyone could. When I was 17, I was naive and had no clue how the world worked. She stood by me, travelled with me, and supported me for nearly a decade.”

She continued, “She made my life her mission. She was my momager, my advisor, and my toughest critic. Everything I am today, I owe to my mother.”
Returning to the spotlight alongside co-judges Geeta Kapoor and Marzi Pestonji on Super Dancer Chapter 5, Shilpa also highlighted the season’s unique focus. “Most reality shows focus only on the contestants’ performances. But this season, we’re spotlighting the untold stories of the contestants’ mothers,” she revealed.

As a mother herself, Shilpa emphasized the selflessness that comes with the role. “Whether you’re a wife, daughter, or sister—when you become a mother, that identity takes center stage. Our children become the heart of our lives.”

In a heartfelt tribute, she added, “We often cheer for the children, but their mothers are the real stars behind their success. On behalf of all the kids, I want to thank every mother out there—kyunki maa hi hoti hain bacchon ki safalta ke peeche ka asli sitara.”