Now, in an exclusive conversation with News9 Digital, Chakda Xpress actress Sameeksha Takke, who essays a small role in the film, opened up about whether the film is shelved or not. While speaking to us, she also recalled her experience working with Anushka Sharma and how she bagged a role in the film.
Q. You have worked with Anushka Sharma in Chakda Xpress. How was your experience on the set of the film?
A. Anushka is truly an aura—graceful, grounded, and full of warmth. Working with her was an incredible learning experience. She brings such sincerity and focus to the set that it automatically lifts everyone’s energy. As for me, being a part of Chakda Xpress was one of the most surreal experiences of my life. From stepping onto a film set to blending my passion for cricket with storytelling, every moment felt like a dream. I got to see first-hand the effort and precision that goes into each scene—and that’s something I’ll always carry with me.
Q. There were reports that the movie had been shelved. Any update on its release date?
A. Yes, there have been talks about that, and as of now, the film is still on the shelf. It’s honestly heartbreaking because Chakda Xpress had so much heart, passion, and hard work poured into it by every single person on set. I may have been a small part of the project, but being there, seeing it all come together—it was nothing short of magical. I really hope the world gets to see what we created. It truly deserves to be out there.
Q. How did you bag a role in Chakda Xpress?
A. It’s actually a fun little story! I auditioned for MCC—a fictional team in the film—based on characters inspired by real Indian cricketers like Rajeshwari Gayakwad and Shikha Pandey. Since I’ve played cricket professionally, one of my cricket friends recommended me for the role. Her mom, who was involved in casting extras at the time, helped me get through. It was surreal—combining my two loves, cricket and performing. I didn’t expect it, but life surprised me in the best way! Honestly, the role is not that huge, but I’m glad that I could be a part of it!
Q. You’ve met several celebs, including Aamir Khan and Virat Kohli. Any anecdote you’d like to share?
A. Oh, absolutely, and both these moments still feel surreal. I still remember during the shoot of Chakda ’Xpress, one of the India matches was going on in Dubai. Between takes, Anushka ma’am kept checking the scores—like any true cricket fan would. The moment the series ended, we saw a completely different side of her—relaxed, smiling, glowing.
The next day, after pack-up, she casually walked over and said, “I’d like you to meet someone.” And there he was—Virat Kohli. Just like that. He was incredibly warm and down-to-earth. He spoke to everyone, asked about our journeys, shared some really kind and motivating words, and even took photos with all of us. It was such a wholesome moment.
https://www
As for Aamir Khan—that happened, thanks to Star Sports. One day, I got a call from Divya from their marketing team saying, “Hey, would you like to come by the office to meet Aamir and the Sitare Zameen Par team?” I said yes before she could even finish her sentence! We ended up playing a fun game of cricket together—me, Aamir sir, Genelia ma’am and everyone. After that, we sat down for a one-on-one lunch. And the highlight? I got to eat Aamir Khan’s special homemade pasanda. Never thought I’d say that out loud! It’s a memory I’ll always hold close.
Q. How did you get your name ‘Atrangi Womaniya’?
A. So, I actually started my content journey through a WordPress blog. Back then, I was juggling a part-time job and doing all sorts of side gigs—one of them being a test model for my photographer friends. When I had to name the blog, I knew I wanted a mix of Hindi and English. I was obsessed with the song Womaniya, and the word ‘Atrangi’ just felt right, mostly because my family had already been calling me that thanks to all the drama I’ve pulled in life. So Atrangi Womaniya felt like the perfect fit.