India, July 14 -- The last time Pratibha Ranta was in her hometown Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, she was an actor in search of recognition. Last month, she returned to her home after two-and-a-half-years, and she admits the whole perception towards her of the city had changed, her breakthrough role in Laapataa Ladies (2024) and the success that followed.

"When I left Shimla five years ago, I had this realisation that I will be going for a long time and I won't be able to come back that frequently. But when I came back, the love that I received from the city and its people, it was very beautiful. When I went to the Mall Road, people were recognising me and appreciating me. I get recognised now in other places too, but when people in your home...