Father's Day: Sanjana Sanghi Says Her Dad Spent Hours Helping Her Rehearse Lines

News18

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Sanjana Sanghi reflects on her father's impact on her life and career, his lessons of integrity, and their cherished Sunday walks in an exclusive interview with News18 Showsha.
Not all superheroes wear capes—some wear spectacles, carry newspapers under their arm, and have the magical ability to make every problem in the world feel smaller. For Dil Bechara star Sanjana Sanghi, that superhero has always been her dad. This Father's Day (June 15, 2025), Sanjana got candid with News18 Showsha about the man who's quietly shaped her life, her values, and even her scenes.
What's the most valuable lesson your father has ever taught you?
The most valuable lesson my father ever taught me is the importance of integrity and authenticity above all else. He says 'no matter what path you choose never compromise who you are or the values you stand for.' In the film industry, where external pressures and perceptions can often sway you, this lesson has been my constant anchor. It's about being true to myself, to my craft, and to the stories I choose to tell. It reminds me to always lead with honesty and to never chase fleeting validation at the cost of my core beliefs.
How has your relationship with your dad shaped who you are today — as a person and as an artist?
My relationship with my dad has profoundly shaped every part of who I am today, both as a person and as an artist. He's been my constant anchor, instilling in me the values of integrity, resilience, and unwavering hard work. These aren't just words; they're the backbone of my character and my professional approach.
As an artist, his emphasis on authenticity and staying grounded is invaluable in a world that can often feel superficial. He taught me to observe deeply, to empathise, and to never lose touch with my roots, which directly influences how I connect with and portray characters. His quiet belief in my unconventional path has given me the courage to chase my dreams fearlessly, always reminding me to seek depth and truth in everything I do.
Did your dad ever visit you on set or help you rehearse lines?
Oh, yes! My dad has visited me on set a few times, which is always incredibly special. He's not someone who seeks the limelight, so his visits are always about quietly observing and being there for me. It's truly comforting to see his familiar face amidst the controlled chaos of a film set; it's like a little piece of home coming to me.
As for helping me rehearse lines, he's definitely done that especially during my early days! He might not be an actor, but he has an amazing memory and a keen ear. We'd sit for hours, and he'd patiently read out the other characters' dialogues. Those sessions were invaluable, not just for the lines themselves, but for the quiet support and focus he offered. He's always been my silent partner in preparation.
Is there a role you've done that made your father particularly proud or emotional?
While my father is incredibly supportive and proud of all my work, there's definitely one role that made him particularly emotional and, I believe, deeply proud playing Kizie Basu in Dil Bechara. That film, with its sensitive theme and profound message, resonated with him on a very deep level.
I remember after he watched it, he didn't say much at first. Later, he told me how deeply moved he was by the story and how I had brought Kizie to life. Seeing him so affected, knowing he connected with my portrayal and the film's message, was one of the most validating and heartwarming moments of my career. His quiet pride meant the world.
What's your favourite memory of spending time with your father when you were little?
My absolute favourite memory of spending time with my father when I was little has to be our Sunday morning 'thought walks." Growing up, almost every Sunday, my dad and I would go for a long walk in our neighbourhood, rain or shine. It wasn't just about the exercise; it was our special time to talk about everything and anything like my dreams, my fears, what I was learning in school, or just random observations about life.
Those walks were filled with his quiet wisdom and my endless questions. He'd offer perspective, listen without judgment, and somehow always know how to make me feel understood and inspired. In today's busy world, that uninterrupted, simple quality time, just walking and talking, feels incredibly precious and something I'd give anything to relive.
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