Shamita Shetty has had a chequered career. But the actor, who’s been appreciated for her performance in the recent web show Black Widows, has no regrets. “I’ve been through ups and downs, and it has made me who I am today. I’m thankful for the life I have. Most of all, to be working even after 20 years is big deal. I’ve not done as much work as I would’ve liked to, but at least I’m given the opportunity to be a part of the film industry, and I’m grateful for that… The industry can be a fake world, and you can lose yourself here, if you are not careful,” says the Zeher (2005) actor, who turns 42 today.

How’s she ringing in her special day? “Now, I enjoy peace and quiet... I remember my 40th birthday celebration was a surprise party. Shilpa (Shetty Kundra; sister) and Raj (Kundra; brother-in-law) whisked me away to Phuket, Thailand. It was just so wonderful,” she reminisces.

Shetty, who has a film, Tenant, lined up, says that 2020 was good for her career wise, but more importantly, it helped her realise what matters. “When you’re trapped alone at home, no matter how much money or fancy stuff you have, nothing matters. It makes you think what’s important. I made a few changes, tried to get rid of negativity. Though I live alone, luckily, I had family close by and I spent quality time with them,” she says, adding, “I was grateful that I got to work on a show during the pandemic. We followed all the Coronavirus protocols while shooting in Kolkata.”