Smriti Khaannaa has played the introvert, the villain, the goddess, and the corporate powerhouse. Known for shows like Ghar Ki Lakshmi Betiyaa, Ganesh Leela, among others, she knows what typecasting looks like, and she's managed to avoid it.
She said, "I consider myself fortunate because my journey has been quite different. Right from the beginning of my career, I've had the opportunity to portray a wide range of characters." The range started early. She said, "In my first show, Ghar Ki Lakshmi Betiyaan, I played Durga, a simple, soft-spoken and introverted girl. My very next show was the complete opposite, where I played the negative lead, constantly planning and plotting. Later, I got the opportunity to play divine characters in Ganesh Leela and Santoshi Maa, which was a completely different experience altogether. In other shows, I've also portrayed strong corporate women and confident, lady-boss personalities." That variety shapes how she picks roles now. She said, "Today, while choosing a role, I look for a character that has substance, something that challenges me as an actor and lets me explore a new side of my craft. That's what excites me the most." On breaking out of a stereotype, especially into comedy, Smriti thinks actors have to make their own case. She said, "Today, social media has become a great platform where actors can showcase different shades of their talent. If people have only seen you in emotional or negative roles, create comedy reels, short performances or audition clips that highlight your comic timing. Casting directors need to see you in a different light before they can imagine you in those roles. Breaking stereotypes requires patience, consistency and sometimes creating opportunities instead of waiting for them." Strong content doesn't always translate into commercial success, and Smriti accepts that without bitterness. She said, "Many factors influence a film's performance, marketing, release timing, competition, word of mouth and how well the audience connects with the subject. Sometimes a film is simply ahead of its time and gets appreciated much later. I think filmmakers should continue experimenting because that's how cinema evolves. Not every experiment becomes a blockbuster, but every meaningful story contributes to the growth of the industry." On what she watches after long days on set, Smriti keeps it honest. She said, "After a hectic shooting schedule, I genuinely enjoy light-hearted comedies because they help me relax and recharge." "At the same time, I also enjoy watching emotionally rich dramas and inspiring films that leave a lasting impact. As an actor, every genre teaches you something new. Ultimately, what matters most to me is a story that is honest, engaging and emotionally connects with the audience," Smriti ended.More Articles