Komal Sharma is a well-known Indian actress and model. Growing up, she never thought she would become an actor. Before starting her acting career, Komal was a dedicated athlete who competed at the national level in squash.
She was making headlines for her winnings in numerous junior and senior squash championships. Komal also participated in beauty pageants, winning Miss Tamil Nadu, Miss Metropolis, and other titles. She made her acting debut in 2011 with the Tamil film Sattapadi Kutram, playing Thamizharasi. Since then, she has appeared in several movies including the Bollywood film Hungama 2.
Hotel Insider: Tell us a bit about your family and how you went from an athlete to a successful actress.
Komal Sharma: My parents moved to Chennai over 45 years ago from Rajasthan. I was born and raised in Chennai. I began playing squash in school and I was a member of the national team then. I was very passionate about the sport. I competed in many championships, winning numerous medals. So, I was frequently in the newspapers for that. Director S.A. Chandrasekhar saw one of the articles about me and had someone from his office call me up. They said they needed a sportsperson for an upcoming movie. That was how I got into the film industry.
Hotel Insider: When you first started, you did not know much about acting. What made you realise this was your true calling?
Komal Sharma: Although I had previously modeled for a few brand advertisements, I was unsure of my acting skills when I got the opportunity but I was not shy to try. I guess as a sportsperson, I grew very comfortable in front of the camera and in large crowds. When you are playing, you are in front of your opponent, the camera is on you, and thousands of people are watching you. So, I was pretty confident during the shooting. My first shot was completed in one take, and I enjoyed the experience. That was when I realised this could be my true calling.
Hotel Insider: What was your childhood dream? Did you ever envision yourself as an actress?
Komal Sharma: I always wanted to be a squash player. I also wanted to serve my country by working in public services or a similar field. But everything turned out completely different from what I imagined growing up. My childhood self would be surprised by where I am now.
Hotel Insider: How old were you when you first started acting?
Komal Sharma: I was about 16 or 17 years old when I first got an opportunity to act in a movie. When they called me with the offer, I was unsure about my skills because it was entirely new to me. But I figured I would give it a shot and see what happened.
Hotel Insider: How did your first movie fare with the audience?
Komal Sharma: The response from the audience was amazing. When the film premiered, I wanted to see if I did a good job in the role. When I saw myself on screen, I realised I was not so bad. That was when I decided to pursue acting full-time.
Hotel Insider: How did your life change after Sattapadi Kuttram?
Komal Sharma: I was very young and still in school, my classmates would come up and say ‘hey I watched your movie’. Everyone wants autographs or to take a picture together. That was a big change from before, but I am glad I got the chance and took this path. My last Malayalam movie was Marakkar Arabi Kadalithe Simham, and it won three awards.
Hotel Insider: You have appeared in several movies since the start of your career. Which one do you think is your favourite?
Komal Sharma: Everything! All of the movies are very special to me but if I had to choose one, I would say Barroz. It is the first movie directed by Mohanlal, who is regarded as a god in the film industry and I feel very lucky to be a part of it. Barroz is a 3D movie and will be released very soon. The crew is very diverse, so filming the movie was very exciting.
Hotel Insider: What are some of the challenges you face working in a male-dominated industry?
Komal Sharma: When I first started, I guess it was a bit difficult. But I would not say I am facing any challenges now. All the men I have worked with have been very welcoming and empowering.
Hotel Insider: What was it like for a girl from Chennai to work in Bollywood?
Komal Sharma: The crew was very warm and welcoming. Everyone made me feel like I belonged. My mother tongue is Hindi so the dialogues were very easy. I grew up watching all of those celebrities on TV, so finally getting to work with them was like a dream come true.
Hotel Insider: When it comes to helping people, what are some of the social issues that are currently occupying your attention?
Komal Sharma: Education, employment, and hunger. These are some of the things we are constantly working towards. Donating to various funds is very simple. You can start by helping 20 to 200 people. It is a small change but by making it, I am setting an example for those who look up to me. There is a saying ‘your right hand should not know what your left hand is doing’. As a celebrity, I believe you have to use your fame and publicity to raise awareness. So, by doing good and setting an example, younger followers will follow suit. Kind of like a chain reaction.
Hotel Insider: Do you feel under a lot of pressure to do what you do? Are you content with where you are?
Komal Sharma: I am very happy with my life right now. God has given me so much and I am very grateful. It allows me to help those in need, which I am very grateful for. I used to feel a lot of pressure when I first started, but I no longer do. My friend Gautham always tells me that if I want to help others, I have to take care of myself first. That is true, how can you help others if you are not mentally and physically fit?
Hotel Insider: Do you practice yoga or incorporate mindfulness into your daily activities?
Komal Sharma: Yes, I am very interested in meditation and other calming practices. I try to exercise or meditate for at least two hours each day. Movement helps calm your mind, which allows you to focus better on your work. Yoga can help relax your mind, body, and soul. Physical activity is very important to me. So, despite a busy day, I try to exercise every day.
Hotel Insider: What are your plans for the future?
Komal Sharma: I will be appearing in more movies. I would also like to engage in more social activities and give back to society as much as possible.
