New Delhi: Sanya Malhotra, known for her nuanced performances in films like Dangal, Pagglait, Kathal, and Sam Bahadur, is all set to charm audiences in a refreshing new avatar with Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari, releasing on October 2.
In a candid conversation with News9, the actress opens up about her desire to take on a lighter, feel-good film, her approach to choosing roles, standing her ground in the industry, and the urgent need for better working conditions—especially for women in cinema.
Sanya Malhotra speaks on how she chooses films
Sanya reveals that when Sam Bahadur wrapped in December and director Shashank Khaitan approached her in January, she was actively seeking a film that would allow her to unwind.“I was actually looking for a film like this,” she says. “I wanted to look like myself. I wanted to do a film where I’m just having fun.”
Known for her immersive prep work, Sanya says that while she did approach this film with the same professionalism, the experience felt lighter and more liberating.“I always do a lot of homework for my characters. I did it here too—but in a much more chilled space. I had always wanted to be part of a film with songs, a family entertainer. And when Shashank called, I knew I was doing it. I was waiting for something like this.”
When asked if this film was a way to mentally reset, Sanya agrees instantly.“It was exactly that. You used the right word—detox. I wanted that when I’m on set, I shouldn’t have to think too much. Because normally, I overthink. I dive too deep into my characters.” “In Sam Bahadur, Mrs., or even Kathal, my mind was constantly occupied. But with this film, I just wanted to show up and enjoy.”
The experience, she adds, was also special because of the bond the cast formed.“We worked out together, ate together. Rohit Saraf cooked for us; sometimes Janhvi Kapoor made food for everyone. We formed this beautiful friendship. As an actor, I was really looking forward to something like this.”
On Headlining Women-Led Films
Sanya has been at the forefront of several women-centric narratives. Was this a conscious decision or a natural evolution? “After Pagglait, I gained confidence I didn’t have before. I remember telling Guneet Monga, ‘It’s too soon for me to do a solo film.’ I thought I needed more time to build an audience.”
But Guneet’s faith changed everything.“If a producer like her has confidence in me, I must trust myself too. Mrs. gave me validation again—it reminded me that the story is the hero. That’s how I choose my roles: instinct first, always.”
And with each film, Sanya keeps one principle close to her heart: “I want to portray women rightly. That’s always at the forefront for me when I choose a character.”
When asked, has her confidence grown since Dangal? She says, “Always,” Sanya says firmly. “Even before Dangal, when I was just doing ads, I was clear about what I wanted. I don’t want to sound pompous, but I respect myself a lot. I have values I’ll never compromise on.”
The Industry Needs Better Work Hours
Addressing the wider issue of work culture, Sanya gets candid about the exhausting schedules actors—and especially women—endure. “I think work hours should be regulated for everyone. Actresses have pre-calls—at least 1.5 hours early. So, if you’re shooting 12 hours, it actually becomes 14, not even counting travel.”
The problem, she says, isn’t limited to stars.“I feel especially bad for the crew. Many don’t even get breaks or proper meals. People don’t eat on time, and no one seems to care. The industry really needs proper rules and regulations around this. It’s high time.”
Rohit Saraf on Respecting Working Mothers
Her co-star Rohit Saraf, who also features in Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari, echoed her sentiments—especially around the challenges faced by women post-pregnancy in the industry.“Especially after pregnancy, a woman’s body is very sensitive and fragile,” says Rohit. “It deserves to be respected and cared for.”
He adds, “I’ll never fully understand what women go through after pregnancy. It would be ridiculous of me to pretend I can. But I’ve seen my mom and sisters go through it. So all I can offer is empathy. And empathy is the only right response.”
A Film That’s All Heart
With Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari, Sanya Malhotra finally gets to embrace the lightness she was looking for—without compromising her values or her craft.“Sometimes, it’s okay to not overthink. To laugh, to dance, to enjoy being on set. This film gave me that.”
As she continues balancing deeply rooted stories with heartfelt performances, Sanya remains one of the rare actors who can carry both—intensity and ease—with equal conviction.