India, Sept. 15 -- A ctor Anupam Kher, who returned to direction after 22 years with Tanvi The Great, says the industry's perception of senior actors is changing. He feels seasoned names are now landing stronger roles than ever. Asked why, he says, "Apart from being seasoned actors, we are also passionate people about life and everything that we do. We are not made of plastic, we live a real life. Hamare ko takleef hoti hai to hoti hai, hum usko camouflage nahi karte." The Padma awardee, whose achievements are also recognised globally with September 10 observed each year as 'Anupam Kher Day' in Las Vegas (USA), admits the journey hasn't been without bias: 'A big producer once said about casting me, isko nahi lete, isko lene se film purani lagti hai. I was horrified when I heard that. But heera to heera hota hai, wo kitna bhi purana ho jaye uski keemat kam nahi hoti.' Reflecting on his directorial comeback, Kher, who has spent four decades in front of the camera, says the experience deepened his bond with his cast. "I am an actor-director, so I know what an actor's insecurities and vulnerabilities are. Actors apni aatma khol ke performance dete hain... It was important for me to give my actors a safe environment to deliver that."...