Shazahn Padamsee, who now goes by her nickname Sashaa, returned to the silver screen as the leading lady in Pagalpan Next Level, which released on Friday. The actress says “Earlier, the projects coming my way were not that exciting. I saw no point in doing films that weren’t creatively satisfying me.” 

However, while she was away from the big screen, she chose to focus on her passion for music. “During this time, I developed my skills as a singer, songwriter, composer and pianist. My mum (renowned pop star Sharon Prabhakar) helped me a lot. She has been my inhouse vocal coach, and she has worked with me diligently,” says Sashaa. She gained popularity after featuring in prominent films such as Rocket Singh: Salesman Of The Year opposite Ranbir Kapoor, Dil Toh Bachha Hai Ji with Ajay Devgn, and Housefull 2.

Though her parents – ad filmmaker and theatre personality Alyque Padamsee and singer Sharon Prabhakar – are renowned personalities, she hasn’t relied on them to help her pave her way into the industry. “My mother and father are established in their fields, but that didn’t mean I had an easy entry into films. I am aware of the privilege that comes with my family name, but I am here to challenge myself and make a mark as an actor,” Sashaa shares.

The actress adds, “During the last few years, apart from being busy with brand shoots and appearances, I also spent a lot of time in Europe training and working with well-known international artistes whose work I admire. This experience has enriched me as an artiste, and I feel I have a lot more to offer as an actor today.”

Post the release of Pagalpan Next Level, Sashaa’s music album will be launched soon. She says, “I’m very excited about the release of my Hindi indie album. I will start shooting for an OTT show next month (November) followed by a South film. I'm excited about the road ahead.”