Some birthdays are about grandeur, some about adventure, but for Namita Lal, who has been part of movies like Before Life After Death, Lihaaf, Country Of The Blind which stars Hina Khan, Oxygen, and Football – The Goal, they are about something even more special—connection.
This year on 10th February, she marked her special day in the warm embrace of family, celebrating with her parents, niece, and sister-in-law. “There’s nothing like being with family, especially parents, to celebrate one’s birthday—it was such a blessed feeling,” she shares. And indeed, few things in life compare to the joy of being surrounded by loved ones on a day meant to celebrate life itself.
But beyond the family gatherings and shared laughter, Namita holds a deeply personal tradition close to her heart—celebrating with herself. “I make sure to celebrate with myself every year. I love to dress up, prepare special food, enjoy a piece of dark chocolate, and have a glass of red wine. Even when I’m alone, I celebrate for myself, with myself. That’s something I’ve done often in the last few years, whether I’ve been traveling on my birthday or spending it on my own.”
Among her many birthdays, one stands out as truly unforgettable. “I think it was the time I went away on my own for a retreat—just me, by myself. I didn’t tell anyone where I was going, and to this day, nobody knows. I look back on that retreat with fondness and with a lot of self-love.”
And what’s a birthday without gifts? “I somehow land up receiving red roses and flowers on my birthday and I think if I keep receiving those on my birthday, I think I’ll be blessed.”
As someone who exudes wisdom and grace, Namita has a beautiful perspective on aging. “Age is just a number. But it’s also more than that—it’s evolution. It’s about stepping into one’s higher consciousness, one’s better self. It’s a time to journey with oneself, for oneself—to meet incredible people, reconnect with those from your past, or encounter those who will be part of your future. It’s a time to live your dreams, passions, and desires. I see it as an opportunity to evolve. For me, each year is a miracle, a kind of magic. The best year of my life is always today because every day is the first day of the rest of my life—and that’s what truly matters.”
When it comes to her professional journey, Namita’s focus isn’t on career goals but rather on dreams and passions. “I no longer have career goals. I have dreams and passions. If you ask me what I truly love to do, it is to live the different characters. I have started that journey 10 years back on stage in front of the camera and may I continue getting opportunities to understand, work with characters, interesting characters, in India and internationally and that’s my aspiration.”
Adding to the excitement of her birthday month, Namita’s upcoming movie Inn Galiyon Mein is set to release, making this time even more special for her as she continues to bring powerful stories to life. And as she continues to evolve, one thing remains certain: every birthday, every moment, and every character she portrays will be another step toward a life well-lived.
