Noida: With the radiant Kriti Sanon gracing the cover, Grazia India’s April 2025 edition dives deep into the dynamic world of independent cinema—this time through the voices and visions of six formidable women. These talented actors—Kani Kusruti, Richa Chadha, Shahana Goswami, Preeti Panigrahi, Anasuya Sengupta, and Nitanshi Goel—are shaking up the industry by embracing stories that defy stereotypes and champion authenticity.
Each of these women brings more than just talent to the screen—they bring bold perspectives, grounded characters, and a commitment to changing the narrative in Indian cinema.
Kani Kusruti, celebrated for her role as Nurse Prabha in All We Imagine As Light, says her joy in acting lies in discovery: “We discover the characters when we play the part—that is the pleasure of acting.” Proud of her Malayali roots and effortlessly true to herself, Kani rejects performative norms, focusing instead on deep character understanding.
Richa Chadha, now both actor and producer, talks about her journey behind the camera: “It gives me great satisfaction to build something from the ground up.” Focused on telling unique and meaningful stories, she dreams of creating space for diverse female characters and bold narratives, from human relationships to edgy comedies.
Anasuya Sengupta, fresh off her Cannes Best Performance win for The Shameless, beams with pride: “Now, I get to call myself an actor without any question.” Drawn to her character Renuka’s fiery spirit, she says, “I felt a sense of protectiveness and wanted to stand up for her.” With action films on her bucket list, Anasuya is only getting started.
Preeti Panigrahi, who shone in Girls Will Be Girls, reflects on leadership and sensitivity on set: “I realised you could run a set without yelling, just by being mindful.” Her portrayal of Mira was emotionally rich, especially in capturing a layered mother-daughter bond. With direction and storytelling in her sights, she’s expanding her creative wings.
Shahana Goswami, known for her impactful roles, plays the lead in Santosh. “You can’t judge your character—you must play her with love,” she says. A believer in living life fully to inform her art, she urges budding actors to become observers of life. Her next big project? The much-anticipated Mahasangam.
Nitanshi Goel, the breakout star of Laapataa Ladies, finds power in simplicity: “The most moving performances come from the simplest truths.” Inspired by director Kiran Rao’s advice to always connect with the “why” of a character, Nitanshi is ready to take on roles that are raw, real, and emotionally resonant. Plus, she’s diving into her passion for dance.
In a world that once leaned on formula and familiarity, these six women are shifting the paradigm—one fearless role at a time. They’re not just performing—they’re reshaping Indian indie cinema with authenticity, grit, and unapologetic vision.
