In an insightful conversation with Moneycontrol.com, actress Sanya Malhotra shared her thoughts on her latest role Richa in her upcoming film Mrs, the impact of director Arati on her growth, and her perspective on the craft of acting and personal growth. Sanya’s journey into her recent role was shaped by a deep connection to the lives of women around her. "I have seen women around me, like my mother and friends, living a similar life," she explains.
Her preparation for the role involved speaking with many women, understanding their experiences, and learning about their struggles. "For my preparation, I spoke to many women, understood their experiences, and struggles. I also worked closely with Aarti to design the character," she adds.
One of the key highlights for Sanya was her collaboration with director Arati. Having been a fan of Aarti for years, the actress felt fortunate to be a part of this project. "I've always been a huge fan of Arati. When I found out she was interested in a story like this, I felt like it was a dream come true," she says. For Sanya, working with Arati was not just a professional experience, but also an opportunity to learn valuable lessons in passion and dedication. "Working with her was an amazing experience, and I learned a lot about passion and hard work," she shares.
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The atmosphere on set, under Arati's direction, was noticeably different from any other Sanya had previously experienced. "The way she directs the set is so calm and full of love. The environment was very different from other sets I’ve worked on, and it was a great learning experience," says Sanya. This calm approach helped create a space where everyone, from the cast to the crew, felt valued and cared for. "Everyone, including the crew, was taken care of, and I felt really comfortable and free to experiment," she adds.
One of the most impactful aspects of working with Arati was how she nurtured Sanya’s creativity. "Arati never made me feel like I was just an actor. She made me feel like we were working together to create something beautiful," Sanya explains. The supportive environment allowed her to push herself further and give her best performance. "I felt supported and encouraged, and it made me want to give my best."
In Sanya’s eyes, directors like Arati are a rare and necessary presence in the industry. "I think directors like Aarti are needed in the industry. They make sure everyone feels comfortable, and they push you to do your best," she says. Aarti’s approach encouraged Sanya to explore new dimensions of her character and herself. "They help you discover new things about your character and about yourself," she adds.
Sanya also emphasized the importance of trusting the director's vision when it comes to bringing a character to life. She believes in doing thorough prep work and following the guidance of the director. "I always try to follow the director’s vision. I do my prep work, and sometimes the director might not want me to do something, but I trust their guidance," she explains.
What stood out with Aarti’s direction was how she ensured everyone’s comfort on set. "Arati's approach was really refreshing because she always made sure everyone was happy and comfortable on set," Sanya says.
Reflecting on the role of a director, Sanya believes that they play a crucial part in shaping the atmosphere and guiding the overall experience. "I believe that directors shape the set, and it’s their vision that guides everything," she shares. With Arati, Sanya felt free to ask questions and experiment with her character, which made the entire process more enjoyable. "With Arati, I never felt scared to ask questions or try new things, which made the experience much more enjoyable."
Despite the glitz and glamour of the industry, Sanya remains grounded in her approach to acting. "I don't think of myself as a star. I just focus on being a good actor," she says. Her passion for the craft and commitment to continuous growth as an artist are evident. "I enjoy acting, and I am constantly learning and growing. Acting is about being grounded and doing my best," she adds.
In her personal life, Sanya has a thoughtful approach to relationships, especially when it comes to the role of a wife. "I think I would be a good wife. Main achi biwi banungi"
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