R Madhavan talks about ageing, life planning and the challenges of staying relevant in a rapidly changing world. Speaking about his current work and personal reflections, the actor pointed out that although people are living longer today, very few are truly prepared for what comes after retirement.In a candid conversation with Varun Dua, Madhavan said that he is taking up roles that match his real life phase. “I’m playing a very age-appropriate role…there’s a lot more gray than last time,” she said, acknowledging the natural aging process while talking about her web series Legacy.
“Living to 90 isn’t such a big deal”
Highlighting the advances in medical science, the actor pointed out that longevity is becoming more and more common. “If you stay healthy and take care of your lifestyle, living to 90 isn’t such a big deal… 90 and 100 are becoming a reality,” he said.However, he was quick to add one caveat: while life expectancy is increasing, life planning has not kept pace.
“The next 30 years of your life are not listed”
Madhavan divided life into three phases to explain the void of long-term planning. “The first 30 years of your life are pretty much mapped out … the next 30 years are about building your career and family. But at 60, there’s a hard stop. The next 30 years of your life are not planned. There’s no plan,” he said.According to him, this lack of preparation can dramatically affect one’s quality of life. “That could be the difference between heaven and hell,” he added.
Fear of losing independence
When asked about his biggest fear, the actor was candid. “My worst fear is being dependent on someone—physically or financially. That’s worse than hell to me,” she admitted.He also spoke about the importance of dignity and contribution in later years. “The loss of dignity is something I cannot accept. I should have the opportunity to bring it, otherwise I would prefer not to be a part of it,” he said.Reflecting on retirement, Madhavan highlighted how suddenly life can change, especially in structured careers. “One Monday you are ‘gentleman’, the next day you are a mere citizen. You lose that importance, that authority,” he explained.He emphasized that people often underestimate the emotional and psychological impact of this transition.
Finding purpose beyond survival
The actor also spoke about the importance of finding a higher purpose. “The only way to get rid of your little problems is to find a bigger purpose to serve. When you start serving others, your problems seem smaller,” he said.However, he acknowledged that reaching that stage requires stability. “It’s very difficult to think about serving others when your survival — health or finances — is at stake,” he added.
’60 is the new 45, but 45 is the new 30 financially’
Summarizing the paradox of modern life, Madhavan stated that there is ever-increasing inequality. “60 is the new 45 when it comes to health; I can still be active. But financially, 45 is the new 30. You’re not stable yet,” he stated.This, according to him, requires a complete rethinking of how people approach life planning.Madhavan concluded by urging people to plan holistically: health, finances and emotional well-being. “If you’re going to live longer, you need to plan better, not just for money, but for purpose, significance and independence,” he said.
