'Our industry has too many parameters and restrictions. The leading lady was expected to have a certain kind of looks and abilities. They were expected to sing and dance. All that is changing now. But during her times the parameters were rigid. And she just didn't fit in.'

Benegal had a wonderful time shooting for 'Trikaal' with the lovely Leela.

'At that time she was married to writer Dom Moraes. Both of them were in Goa for the shooting. Leela was wonderful. One of her many qualities was that she took charge of the younger actors. She was very caring. She was particularly good with children. I noticed that quality the very first time when I met her. She calmed down a child who was feeling very insecure because her parents weren't around. That child stuck to Leela as though she was the child's mother. Leela was a wonderful person,' he added.