Actress Hansa Singh Shares Her Experience of Meeting the Legendary Shabana Azmi: "I Hope and Pray I Get to Work With Her Soon"

MUMBAI: Actress Hansa Singh, who will next be seen in Manoj Bajpayee's Despatch, recently had the opportunity to meet the legendary Shabana Azmi. Known for her iconic performances in films like Masoom, Arth, Paar, Fire, and Mandi, Shabana Azmi has consistently brought Indian cinema to a global audience. When Hansa met her at an event, she was captivated by her grace and charisma. She shares, “To describe the entire experience in two words would be ‘epic’ and ‘surreal.’ I am just thankful to the universe for making this meeting informal yet meaningful. When I met her, I wanted to discuss so many things, but I kept searching for words—I was simply mesmerized. She asked me about my work, my films, and whether I do theatre. For me, getting to know her as a person was even more important. What fascinates me about her journey is her ability to excel in both parallel and mainstream cinema—she has mastered both.” Hansa also recalls her childhood experience of watching a Shabana Azmi film. “As a kid, we weren’t allowed to watch films. So, when we entered our teens and finally had a television at home, we could watch whatever Doordarshan broadcasted. That’s when I first saw Ankur. More than films, we used to watch songs on Chitrahaar on DD. When Shabana Ji appeared in commercial films like Amar Akbar Anthony and Parvarish, I saw a very modern and different side of her. For me, she is like a school. She shaped who I am today. Although people often say I resemble Rekha Ji, I personally feel I am more like Shabana Ji.” When asked about her favorite Shabana Azmi films, Hansa says, “As an actor, I love her in Mandi and Ankur. But I was equally in awe of her in Parvarish.”

So how has Shabana Azmi inspired her as an artist? Hansa explains, “If you have the knack for studying a character with nuances, you will always learn as an actor. It’s a never-ending process. I watch how effortlessly she performs. She works in films like Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani and Fire—her range is simply incredible. I hope the universe blesses me to achieve even 0.001% of what she has accomplished. She has shaped my craft. I have learned so much by watching her films. Although I’ve only met her now, I believe my journey with her began much earlier.” Hansa also shared a personal anecdote that adds a deeper connection to her admiration for Shabana Azmi. “Kaifi Azmi Uncle used to visit our home because my mother is a poetess who hosted mushairas and kavya goshtis. I believe this is all part of the universe’s blueprint. I hope and pray I get the chance to work with Shabana Ji soon.”