From her humble beginnings in Noida to emerging as one of Indian cinema’s most promising talents, Medha Shankarhas consistently brought authenticity, dedication, and grace to every role. In this exclusive conversation with Face Magazine, she shares her personal journey, creative process, inspirations, and the passions that keep her grounded.
Personal Journey & Identity
Reflecting on Early Days
“Looking back at my journey so far, I feel immense gratitude,” Medha shares. “Growing up in Noida, the idea of becoming an actor felt so far-fetched. From that to here, I’m just grateful for everything—the good, the bad, and yes, the ugly (but mostly good). I’m really proud of my journey.”
Defining Moment in Performing Arts
“The moment that changed everything was an audition for a short film in Delhi,” she recalls. “I had never done theatre, but when I faced the camera for the first time, I felt an ease and connection. That’s when I knew acting was something I had to explore.”
Family Influence
“My mother was incredibly talented—she choreographed our dances, wrote and directed plays. That passion seeded my love for performing arts,” Medha says. “Her passing is my biggest loss, but my father and brother have been pillars of support. My upbringing shaped who I am—I get my singing from my dad, my dancing and acting from my mom. All my ‘keedas’ came from them.”
Craft & Career
Preparation for Roles
“The preparation depends on the character, but the commitment to honesty is constant,” Medha explains. “Even when playing a villain, sincerity and the right intent are my priorities.”
Performance That Changed Her
“12th Fail changed me both personally and professionally,” she says. “Playing Shraddha Joshi, a character that resonated deeply with audiences, was humbling and one of my favorite experiences.”
Balancing Script and Authenticity
“Authenticity is what creates magic,” she notes. “While the character is written, how I interpret emotions and add quirks is my contribution. I balance staying true to the script with my own understanding of the world.”
Inspiration & Values
Artistic Inspirations
“I resonate deeply with Imtiaz Ali’s work like Tamasha and Rockstar—the complexity, the emotions, the love,” Medha says. “Sanjay Leela Bhansali is a dream collaboration, and Vidhu Sir will always be a favorite.”
Guiding Principles
“My core values guide every choice: intent, honesty, and authenticity. Whether picking films or performing, if these three things are in place, everything else falls into place.”
Beyond Acting
Passions That Ground Her
“Singing and dancing keep me grounded,” Medha explains. “Sitting alone and singing calms me, and dancing makes me happy. Watching films, analyzing them, and discussing cinema with friends also fulfill me creatively.”
Handling Scrutiny
“I focus on the positive love I receive,” she says. “Constructive criticism I take seriously, but hate online I don’t engage with. I focus on the support and encouragement sent my way.”
Future & Legacy
Stories and Characters She Wants to Explore
“I’d love to play a wild, unpredictable woman or an intense love story,” she shares. “Something completely out of character excites me.”
Using Her Platform
“If I can inspire even one person, that’s enough. I want everyone to know: if I can do it, so can you. Stay honest, work hard, believe in God—good things will happen.”
Quick Fun Round
A Book That Changed Her
The Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee and A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini—stories of women that deeply influenced her.
A Quote She Lives By
“Self-belief and perseverance are your two best friends.”
If Not an Actor?
“A writer-director… or a flat-out singer.”
Credits
Cover Feature: @medhashankr Creative Director: @farrahkader Photographer: @tejasnerurkarr Stylist: @stylebykarishmaa Outfit: @ryabyriyathakkar @nea_by_nikitatiwari @pinkcitybysarika @mymoledro Jewellery: @finesilverjewels_rj Makeup Artist: @makeupwali Hair Stylist: @tanzz__1910_ Luxury Travel Partner: @panoramicluxe Cover Design: @ankist Co-ordination: @nadiiaamalik Artist Management: @communiquefilmpr
Published by: @facemedianetworks | Crafted with love, vision & passion
