Aaditi Pohankar has carved a niche for herself with bold and unconventional roles in projects like She and Aashram. In this candid conversation with ETimes, she opens up about her journey in the industry, the lessons she learned from missing out on Dangal, her admiration for visionary filmmakers like Mani Ratnam and Vetri Maaran, and the evolving landscape of female-led narratives in OTT. Excerpts…
You once mentioned losing out on ‘Dangal’ but later finding your place in ‘Aashram.’ How did that experience shape your perspective on the industry and perseverance?
Honestly, they say that whenever you learn something, it is always for the future or will eventually be applied in some way, right? That’s what happened with me and Dangal. I learned the Haryanvi accent, understood the mindset of wrestlers, and gained valuable insights. The role I got in Aashram was entirely different—more than just a wrestler—but that prior learning proved essential and really helped me. I am so happy that it found application because now it’s not left within me as an unfulfilled desire. That experience gave me perspective on many things—about myself as an athlete, as an actor, and the strength required to handle rigorous performances. Aashram was like making four films at once. At that point, I had to wrestle, train, and perform emotionally, all at the same time. So, I believe that experience truly shaped me.
Whether it’s ‘She’ or ‘Aashram,’ you have picked unconventional, bold characters. What draws you to such roles, and do you actively seek narratives that challenge norms?
Yes, certainly. I do internally seek narratives that challenge norms—no doubt about it. Since I am in a medium where people will see my face and relate to emotions through it, I’d rather do something that brings even the smallest change. I want to use my life to help humanity in the best way I can. If people face their fears with courage, nothing in the world can stop them. And I can see that people are feeling this through my work. I never say I put in 100 percent—because I believe there is no limit like that. I put in the effort required for that moment, and that makes me complete. My entire mind is in the present, creating powerful moments in the scenes given to me. I think that’s what touches people’s hearts, which is exactly what I always wanted—to connect with audiences.
Mother Teresa once said that if you go to war, you will get war, but if you go with peace, you will get peace. And Gandhi said, Be the change you want to see in the world. These words have stayed with me since childhood, shaping my perspective on life and work. If you want people to follow something, you must embody it first. That’s why, while I internally seek such roles, externally, they seem to come to me naturally. Some are bold, some are submissive like Bhoomi, and others are courageous like Pammi. As we speak, more such characters are developing, and I align with them. In fact, I have recently taken up three more unconventional and intense scripts. So, stay tuned!
In one of your interviews, you spoke about your love for Vetrimaaran and Mani Ratnam. Which of their films have left a lasting impression on you?
These two are my absolute favourite directors—Vetrimaaran sir and Mani Ratnam sir. Viduthalai was one of my top favourites. With Mani sir, I love all his films—from Roja to Bombay to Guru—they are simply amazing. These directors create cinema that touches your heart, and when combined with Rahman sir’s music, it’s just magical. Aadukalam is another one of my favourite films by Vetrimaaran sir.
You’ve worked in films and web series across different industries. Do you think OTT platforms offer better opportunities for layered female characters?
Yes, from my limited experience, I do feel that OTT platforms are now providing better opportunities for layered female characters. There is time to explore them, and there is also demand. This is the era of Shakti—female-driven narratives are being embraced, and it’s wonderful. Every time period has a meaning, and right now, it’s a phase that supports female-oriented roles. As an actor and as a woman, this is a huge opportunity—like opening a treasure chest full of possibilities. Now, I just need to pick the right ones. I am excited for the next ten years—to create unforgettable characters that can become examples for others.
You’ve spoken about casual sexism in the industry. Have you faced any biases while choosing roles, and how do you navigate them?
Honestly, I haven’t faced any biases while choosing roles. In fact, I don’t even think about it. I firmly believe that where you direct your attention, that’s what comes back to you. This mindset is very clear to me. Since I don’t focus on these things, they don’t affect me at all. So, I don’t need to navigate them because, genuinely, they don’t reach me.
