L’utopia Magazine recently had the pleasure of speaking with the multi-talented Sheena, who has carved a niche for herself in both the Indian and international film industries. With a Cannes accolade, numerous awards, and an inspiring role as the ambassador for United for Human Rights , Sheena’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. In this conversation, she opens up about her experiences, her upcoming projects, and her passion for human rights.
How has the journey been for you lately, Sheena?
Sheena:It's been incredibly exciting! Recently, I won three awards for my film Amar Prem, which premiered at Cannes and has already garnered about 15 awards. It’s a beautiful short film, an emotional drama about a love triangle, reminiscent of classic stories like Silsila. My role as a devoted wife who discovers her husband’s illness was deeply challenging yet rewarding, and receiving recognition for it has been a dream come true.
Your film’s success at Cannes is incredible! How was your experience at the festival?
Sheena: Having my film premiere at the main tent at Cannes was surreal. But this year has been non-stop for me. I recently completed my Hollywood debut in a film called Nomad, directed by Taron Lexton, who's now working on a major project with Tom Cruise. Creating characters with such a talented team was a pure collaboration that pushed me to explore my craft in new ways. The international exposure has been amazing, and I’m eager to continue working with passionate directors and storytellers.
How does working in Hollywood compare to Bollywood? Are there significant differences?
Sheena: The working styles are different, yes. Hollywood tends to be more organized and professional, while Bollywood, though also organized, has its unique, more spontaneous energy. However, the dedication to making impactful cinema is the same in both industries. I believe the lines between Hollywood and Bollywood are blurring, especially with the rise of OTT platforms like Netflix and Amazon, which are bringing diverse stories to global audiences.
Speaking of OTT platforms, what do you think the future holds for the industry?
Sheena: I’m not a trade analyst, so I can’t predict the future, but I’m excited about the opportunities OTT platforms are creating. This year, I’ll be seen in a web series called Bhayava, where I play a she-devil, a role inspired by characters like Maleficent. OTT has opened up space for strong female leads and character-driven stories, which is fantastic for actors like me who crave diverse roles.
You’ve also made significant strides as a UN Human Rights Ambassador. Can you share a bit about that journey?
Sheena: Absolutely! I’ve been an ambassador for the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights for nearly a decade now. This year, I was honored with the Presidential Award in America, signed by President Biden, for reaching 170 million people with human rights education. My ultimate goal is to make human rights education mandatory in schools across India, as I believe it’s crucial for creating a positive change in society. It’s a cause that I’m deeply passionate about, and I’m committed to using my platform to further this mission.
That’s truly inspiring. On the film front, what can we look forward to from you next?
Sheena: I am thrilled about my Bollywood debut in Sant Tukaram, a historic biopic directed by Aditya Om, where I play a powerful lead role. It’s a dream project for me, given the depth and intensity of the character. I’ve always dreamed of being an actor since I was two years old, and now, I’m living that dream.
You’ve had an impressive journey, training in theater and working across different film industries. What advice would you give to aspiring actors?
Sheena:My advice would be simple: Don’t give up. This industry is full of setbacks, rejections, and challenges, but perseverance is key. Also, be professional and committed to your craft. Dedication and commitment can take you a long way, and you never know when your big break might come.
Are there any directors you’re particularly eager to work with in the future?
Sheena: I admire the work of directors like Anubhav Sinha, Raju Hirani, Shekhar Kapur, and Rajamouli. Each brings something unique to the table, whether it’s drama, comedy, or epic cinema. I’ve been fortunate to work with incredible filmmakers so far, and I look forward to collaborating with more in the future.
You’ve worked in both Bollywood and the South Indian film industry. How do the two compare?
Sheena: The Southern film industry is more personalized, with a strong emphasis on relationships and a family-like atmosphere on set. Bollywood, on the other hand, operates more like a corporate entity with agencies and PR's involved. But, as I mentioned earlier, the industry is evolving, and there’s a lot of crossover happening now between Bollywood and South Indian cinema.
Finally, what kind of stories do you gravitate towards, and what excites you most about your work?
Sheena: I love stories that are character-driven, whether it’s drama, comedy, or epic biopics. One of my all-time favorite films is Avatar by James Cameron. I’m particularly drawn to roles that allow me to explore different facets of human emotions and tell relatable stories that resonate with audiences.
Through the conversation, it was evident that Sheena is not just an actor but a passionate advocate for human rights, a dreamer who has turned her childhood aspirations into reality, and an artist who continues to seek out meaningful stories to tell. Her journey serves as an inspiration to many, and we eagerly anticipate the next chapter in her remarkable career.
