I’ve moved out of the city, but Kolkata is still my emotional anchor: Sheena Chohan

Actress Sheena Chohan came to visit Kolkata after six years, a city where it all started for her. Amidst the year-end festivities, during an exclusive chat and shoot with CT on Park Street, she expressed how nostalgic she felt. “Returning after six years feels like coming full circle. Park Street and the Christmas vibes reminds me of my childhood,” said the actress. She also spoke to us about her acting journey, the special place
Kolkata holds in her life and more.
‘Park Street always feels magical this time of year’
For Sheena, Christmas as a child meant warmth, joy, new films, and togetherness. “I remember decorating the tree, exchanging presents with school friends, family, and childhood best friends, and occasionally attending midnight mass,” said Sheena. She recalled taking short trips to Shantiniketan during her winter breaks. “These visits deepened my understanding of Tagore’s literature, art, and history,” she added.
‘I fell in love with the craft because of Theatre’
“Theatre taught me discipline, a deep respect for the craft and the importance of preparation,” said Sheena, who made her film debut opposite Mammootty in The Train (2011), and was seen in Sant Tukaram as Avali Jijabai this year. Her artistic foundation was shaped by her theatre training at Padatik, where she was part of productions such as A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Ek Maamooli Aadmi. “Working with stalwarts like Kunal Padi, Shyamanand Jalan and Vinay Sharma shaped my formative years,”
she said.

‘Cinema is a powerful tool shaping society, for better or worse’
Beyond cinema, Sheena is a vocal advocate for human rights and women’s safety. A United Nations Hero Award recipient and Human Rights Ambassador, she credits her Kolkata upbringing for shaping her social conscience and courage to speak out. “Cinema is one of the most powerful tools shaping society, for better or worse,” she said. “What we show on screen influences mindsets. Glorifying violence normalises harm. As an actress, I choose layered, resilient female roles, as these stories can address violence sensitively while promoting dignity, safety, and rights.”
Pics: Anindya Saha; Outfit by: Rimi Nayak; Makeup: Sonam Jaiswal; Hair: Debjit Das


Get an chance to win ₹5000 Amazon Voucher by taking part in India's Biggest Habit Index! Take the survey here