I’ve grown as an actor, but there’s still so much to learn: Bhumika Chawla on completing 25 years in the film industry

Twenty-five years into a career spanning Hindi, Telugu, and Tamil cinema, Bhumika Chawla continues to evolve. After rising to fame in the early 2000s with Tollywood hits like Kushi and Okkadu, she recently reunited with director Gunasekhar for Euphoria, a full 23 years after their first collaboration. Transitioning from the iconic role of Swapna to playing a mother navigating teenage complexities today, Bhumika has gracefully embraced her growth on and off the screen. Speaking to Hyderabad Times, the actor opens up about her special reunion with Gunasekhar, daring stunts from the past, and finding contentment away from the spotlight. Excerpts...

‘Reuniting with Gunasekhar sir after 23 years was special’

I think we’ve both grown in our own ways. With time, experience and working on different kinds of films, you naturally evolve. Collaborating again after almost 23 years felt very different, especially because the project itself has such a unique concept. What I truly admire about working with Guna sir is that he still approaches cinema with the enthusiasm of a child and gives his absolute best to everything. His dedication and focus are remarkable. As for me, I’ve grown as an actor too, but I still feel there’s so much more to learn. It was a fantastic experience.

‘Playing a mother in Euphoria felt deeply relatable’

As an actor, I’m always drawn to roles that feel new. In Euphoria, which explores the aftermath of a sexual assault on a teenage girl and looks at issues of parenting, accountability and the judicial system, playing the mother of a 17-year-old felt relatable because I’m a mother myself. It also reflects the realities many mothers face today. In reality, many women juggle home, children and countless daily responsibilities, while fathers are often seen mainly as providers. Ideally, parenting responsibilities should be shared equally. That said, it doesn’t mean I’ll only take such roles — my choices depend on the opportunities that come along.

‘I don’t feel the pressure to stay in the spotlight’

I’m not comfortable putting every part of my life out in the public. Simple moments like having a meal or spending time with my mother at home are meant to remain private. I think this comes from a place of contentment — being satisfied with what you have. Some people go out of their way to stay visible or invite attention to remain in the spotlight, but I don’t feel that pressure. In fact, that kind of constant visibility makes me quite uncomfortable. I feel I’ve reached a stage in life where I truly value my private space and quiet time. Even when I’m active on social media, I often take breaks from it.

‘Jumping from the Charminar for Okkadu was absolutely thrilling’

During Okkadu, there was a scene where Mahesh and I had to jump from the Charminar. It was a set, of course, but the replica matched the real Charminar in height — nearly 40 feet! The director suggested using a body double, but being the adventurous person I am, I insisted on doing it myself. Honestly, it was terrifying. Even with safety props below, jumping from that height wasn’t easy, and I still can’t believe I did it. After the jump, I felt exhilarated. That is something I will never forget.

‘Films that leave a lasting impact are the most fulfilling to be part of’

One of the most important aspects of being an actor is the ability to make a difference. While it’s wonderful to be part of fun and entertaining films, there’s something uniquely fulfilling about projects that leave a lasting impact — films that make people reflect on relationships, life choices, or the way they see the world. Naa Autograph (2004), for instance, brought me countless letters and messages over the years. One that stands out is from a college student in Vizag, who shared that the film had changed their perspective — that you shouldn’t give up everything for one person and that balancing your career and relationships is important. Knowing the film impacted so many young people was incredibly meaningful. Even today, I still see messages on social media from people saying that a performance or story touched their hearts or influenced their lives. That feeling is truly a blessing. I believe every actor should strive to be part of at least one or two such meaningful films in their career.

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