‘Today, I’m a lot more confident’

Anushka Sharma says bad mouthing someone, going overboard with marketing, or pitting herself against others won’t ever give her peace of mind

What is Anushka Sharma’s life like? ‘Busy’ sounds like an understatement. She has just finished shooting for her next home production, Pari, and the actor is already preparing to join Shah Rukh Khan for film-maker Aanand L Rai’s next project. A few days ago, she also took the time between projects to launch her new clothing line. HT Café caught up with the actor to talk about her career, being ‘focused’, and more.

How are you managing so many things at the same time?

Over the past two years, I have realised how many things I have taken on. We just finished shooting for a film that I am producing, and I will soon start shooting for Aanand L Rai’s film. Also, I am not picking roles at random. I’m taking on parts that are challenging and demand something — for instance, lots of preparation — from me. Then, I am also starting my own clothing brand. So I am doing a lot of things, but I enjoy that (smiles).

Is there a mantra that you follow visàvis time management?

When I am doing something that challenges, inspires and pushes me, it gives me more focus and drive, and adds meaning to my life. For me, it has always been about personal growth. I want to be a better version of myself, not just as an actor, but as a person too.

SRK recently said that you are doing great work as a producer. How do you find inspiration and strength for your projects?

When something starts off, it comes from a very pure place. With films, it was like, ‘I want to make good cinema’. My thought process is always that simple. At that time, you don’t think which direction you are heading toward or how easy or difficult it will be. But even when you realise that there are difficulties and challenges, they only help you grow. I feel that your growth as a person will be very stunted if you keep doing only one thing. Today, I feel a lot more confident as a person because of the many things that I do. And why shouldn’t I?

How excited or nervous are you about your clothing line?

I am very excited. When you do something that you have worked on so much, something that has consumed you in a way, it becomes very personal. There is a bit of nervousness and excitement. I am happy with the feedback. So, I am happy that it has started off really well.

PHOTO: ERRIKOS ANDREOU