Sheena Chohan talks Film Career, Inspirations & More

Sheena Chohan is a versatile and popular actress whose work spans Malayalam, Tamil, and Telugu cinema.

She will soon debut in Hindi cinema with Aditya Om’s Sant Tukaram.

Sheena has also done some Hollywood work and has dabbled in digital content.

She has made a mark as an entertainer and is a humanitarian of rare calibre.

US President Joe Biden awarded the actress the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

Sheena Chohan raised awareness of equality and diversity among 170 million people.

With such amazing achievements, Sheena is all upward.

In our exclusive chat, Sheena Chohan speaks about her career and sheds light on who inspires her.

Can you describe your journey in cinema so far?

My journey in cinema has been a deeply enriching experience.

It is rooted in a love for storytelling that began when I first stepped on stage at two years old.

Starting with theatre in school, I was part of productions like A Midsummer Night’s Dream in Kolkata with Padatik.

I further honed my craft in New Delhi with Arvind Gaur, Asmita Theatre.

Transitioning to film, I’ve had the privilege to explore diverse roles, each teaching me more about the nuances of acting and storytelling.

From indie films to mainstream projects, I have embraced opportunities that challenge me and allow me to grow as an artist.

How did you get into the industry? Did you have any previous connections?

My entry into the industry was fuelled by a passion for the arts and the determination to share my stories.

While I didn’t have direct connections, my theatre experience laid a strong foundation, enabling me to approach each role with authenticity and depth.

The support of mentors like Sushmita Sen, who guided me early in my career, provided invaluable insights into maintaining dignity and professionalism.

My journey is a testament to perseverance, learning, and continuously pushing boundaries.

Can you describe your decision-making process when selecting films?

Choosing films is about resonance and challenge for me.

I seek projects that speak to me on an intellectual and emotional level, offering characters that push me to explore new facets of my artistry.

It’s important that the script and story align with my values and aspirations.

I enjoy being a blank page for directors, committing wholeheartedly to the vision they bring and ensuring my portrayal adds depth to the narrative and the character I play.

The joy lies in the research and preparation, immersing myself entirely in the world of the character and then living fully in the moment to create magic with my director.

Can you tell us a bit about Sant Tukaram? What’s the story and your character?

Sant Tukaram is a compelling film that dives into the life of the revered poet-saint Tukaram, whose teachings on spirituality and humanity left a lasting impact.

I play the role of his wife, whose unwavering support and strength are central to his journey.

This character allowed me to delve deep into historical contexts and bring to life a figure of immense resilience and grace.

The film is a beautiful blend of history and emotion, offering insights into Tukaram’s profound philosophy and the timeless relevance of his messages.

I trusted my director Aditya Om and followed his vision every step along the way.

What similarities or differences have you noticed between the South industries and Bollywood?

Both the South industries and Bollywood have their unique charms and strengths. In the South, there is a deep respect for tradition and storytelling, with films often rooted in culture and local narratives.

Bollywood, on the other hand, offers a blend of commercial appeal and experimentation.

I’ve found that both industries are driven by passionate storytellers and have immense creativity and dedication to their craft.

For me, working across these platforms enriches my perspective, allowing me to experience diverse filmmaking styles.

What genres of film do you feel suit you best?

I find myself drawn to genres that allow for deep character exploration, such as comedy, drama, and historical films.

They provide a canvas to dive into complex emotions and narratives, which I find immensely rewarding.

However, I also enjoy the creativity and freedom that comes with working in fantasy and action genres, where I can push physical and imaginative boundaries.

Ultimately, any genre that challenges me and allows me to contribute meaningfully to a story is one I’m eager to explore.

What actors and filmmakers have inspired you and how?

I am inspired by actors like Meryl Streep and Irrfan Khan, who bring authenticity and depth to every role. Their ability to inhabit characters fully is something I aspire to.

Filmmakers like Shekhar Kapur and Rajkumar Hirani inspire me with their vision and storytelling prowess.

Working with directors who challenge conventions and bring out the best in their actors fuels my passion for the craft.

Their work reminds me of the power of cinema to touch hearts and provoke thought and positive change.

What advice would you give budding actresses who want to enter cinema?

To budding actresses, I’d say embrace every opportunity to learn and grow.

Theatre is a fantastic way to hone your craft and understand the nuances of performance.

Be patient and resilient, as the journey can be challenging but incredibly rewarding.

Always stay true to your values and instincts, and never stop seeking knowledge.

Surround yourself with supportive mentors and peers, and let each experience shape you into a more insightful artist.

Most importantly, enjoy the process and let your passion shine through in every role you take on.

Can you tell us a bit about your future work?

I’m excited about several upcoming projects that promise to showcase different facets of my acting abilities.

Sant Tukaram and Nomad are two films I’m particularly thrilled about, both offering rich narratives and character depth.

I’m also exploring international collaborations that push creative boundaries and offer fresh storytelling perspectives.

My focus remains on selecting roles that resonate with me and continue to challenge and inspire me as an artist, contributing to a body of work that I am proud of.

Sheena Chohan is an artist of great calibre.

Her wise words to budding actresses can inspire millions of young women seeking a performing arts career.

With a lot of intriguing work coming up, Sheena brims with promise and potential.

So, keep an eye out for Sheena Chohan. You’re guaranteed to be dazzled and impressed.