Latest news with #PujaSharma
Time of India
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Puja Sharma and Ashish Dixit on the healing power of Yoga and Music
On the occasion of International Yoga Day and World Music Day, television actors Puja Sharma and Ashish Dixit share how yoga and music help them stay grounded amidst their demanding shoot schedules — offering moments of calm, clarity, and joy. Puja Sharma, who plays Kanka in Jhanak, is working toward building a more consistent yoga practice and believes even 3–4 days a week can bring a real shift — physically, mentally, and emotionally. 'I truly want to make yoga a more permanent part of my lifestyle because I've seen how even a little bit can create balance,' she shares. Music, too, is an essential part of her daily rhythm. 'I start my mornings with chants and meditation music to feel centered, and before stepping out, I dance to a high-energy Punjabi song to uplift my vibe! After a long day on set, soothing music — be it AR Rahman, Indian classical, ghazals, or 90s Bollywood — helps me unwind and reconnect with myself. Music is my therapy — a silent friend that's always there.' For Ashish Dixit, the lead in Pati Brahmachari, yoga is a way to reset during packed days on set. 'Yoga helps me find moments of stillness in a hectic routine. Even on busy shoot days, I try to fit in short stretches or breathing exercises between scenes. It calms my nerves and helps me approach every shot with more focus.' When it comes to music, his choices are rooted in emotion. 'I often listen to soft instrumental tracks or soulful Sufi music on my way to the set — it puts me in the right frame of mind. And after a long day, nothing beats old Hindi classics to help me unwind.' For both actors, yoga and music are more than wellness trends — they're essential tools for emotional balance and self-connection. Can you laugh like these TV celebs?
Time of India
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Puja Sharma: Why should I hide my age, I am not insecure
After a seven-year hiatus pursuing films and web shows, Puja Sharma returns to television with Jhanak. After a long hiatus, actress Puja Sharma has recently returned to the small screen with Jhanak. Reflecting on her seven-year break, she says, 'I took a break because I wanted to grow as an artiste, and get into films and web shows. But it wasn't easy. I started doing TV commercials, but then a phase came when I was getting rejected back to back.' The actress adds, 'I used to get short-listed for projects, but things wouldn't work out at the last minute. Eventually, I reached a saturation point. During that time, I helped my parents with their business in Jharkhand.' So, what prompted her to get back to TV? The actress, who has been part of shows like Naagin, Dil Se Dil Tak and Devon Ke Dev Mahadev, says, 'TV wasn't the plan, but when Jhanak came to me, I felt it was an interesting role and decided to take it up. Now, along with TV, I'll focus on other mediums, too. Earlier, people had to take a break from TV to transition, but I think that's changed now.' On television, actresses are often cast in mother roles at a young age. Talking about this, Puja says, 'I don't feel there is anything wrong with that, but the role has to be good. I started at 20 and now I'm 37. I've learned a lot along the way. I am not insecure as an actor, and I don't hide my age. If I fit a particular role, I'll do it. An actor should keep experimenting to avoid being typecast.'
Time of India
15-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Puja Sharma and Ashish Dixit open up about their emotional bond with their dads this Father's Day
This Father's Day, beloved television actors are getting candid and emotional as they open up about the men who shaped their lives behind the scenes. Whether still by their side or lost too soon, their fathers continue to be their compass — guiding, inspiring, and silently cheering them on through every chapter of their journey. For Puja Sharma , who made a powerful comeback to the screen after seven years with Jhanak as the fierce tribal woman Kanak, the day holds deeply personal meaning. More than a celebration, it's a tribute to a father she lost too soon, yet always felt connected to. 'I lost my father when I was just two years old, but his presence has always stayed with me,' she shares. 'He was a visionary — a respected businessman and civil contractor with CCL — and a generous soul who helped build schools and uplift communities across Bihar and Jharkhand. Even today, strangers approach me with stories of his kindness and humility.' She continues with emotion, 'Growing up, people often said, 'You're just like your father.' That always meant the world to me. Though I never knew him personally, I feel his spirit in my values, in my work, and in the way I try to treat people. He was a man of integrity, simplicity, and immense heart — if I can carry even a fraction of that forward, I know I'm honouring him.' by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Play Chess on Your PC, Free Play Classic Chess Install Now Undo Meanwhile, Ashish Dixit , who currently headlines with hit show Pati Brahmachari, reflected on the quiet strength and constant presence of his father in his life and career. 'My father is the kind of man who never had to say much — his actions, his resilience, and his silent belief in me always spoke louder than words. From the moment I chose to pursue acting, he's been my rock. Even when the path was uncertain, he never let me lose faith.' He recalls a moment that's etched in his heart, 'I still remember how his eyes lit up when he saw my first scene on television. That moment wasn't just mine — it was his too. Every audition I cracked, every challenge I faced, I did it knowing his faith in me was unwavering. Today, when he says he's proud or encourages me to take on more diverse roles, it feels like a full-circle moment. So much of who I am — and how far I've come — is because of him. ' For both actors, Father's Day is not just a date on the calendar — it's a reminder of the love, strength, and legacy that continues to shape them every single day. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Father's Day wishes , messages , and quotes !
Time of India
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Naagin actress Puja Sharma returns to TV after seven years with Jhanak: I couldn't have asked for a better comeback
After a seven-year hiatus, actress Puja Sharma is back — and she's returning with fire in her eyes. Known for her roles in Naagin , Jyoti , Dil Se Dil Tak , Mere Angne Mei n, and Devon Ke Dev Mahadev , Sharma returns with a character she describes as "strong and layered," a choice made consciously after turning down offers that didn't resonate. She will enter Jhanak, playing Kanka — a fierce, grey-shaded tribal woman from a Naxalite backdrop. 'After a sabbatical, I didn't want to take up just anything. I was waiting for the right moment,' says Sharma, pointing out how the medium tends to typecast actresses over 30. 'On television, you often get roles based on your age, and once you cross 30, you're mostly offered characters like Chachi, Bhabhi, Didi, or Devrani—which is fine, as long as the role is challenging. When I heard the brief for this particular character, I just knew it was the one. I couldn't have asked for a better comeback—it's a fantastic role.' The actor admits that while she stayed visible through commercials and a yet-to-be-released film, the absence of long-format storytelling left a creative void. 'I definitely missed acting—no denying that. Although I did shoot for a movie during this time (still waiting for its release), and I also worked on several TV commercials. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch CFD với công nghệ và tốc độ tốt hơn IC Markets Đăng ký Undo But I missed living a character for more than just a day,' she says. 'Commercials are typically one-day shoots, while on television, you get to truly live the character over time. You get more screen presence, more time and space to perform—and that's absolutely thrilling for any actor.' Her comeback role, she explains, offers her just that—the chance to explore a nuanced persona with depth and emotional heft. 'It's a grey character—I'm playing a strong tribal girl who is part of a Naxalite group. She's a gundi ,' Sharma shares. 'Coincidentally, I'm from Jharkhand, and since childhood, many tribal people have worked at my home. I've closely observed their mannerisms—the way they speak, dress, carry themselves. So when I found out about this character, I was genuinely excited. It felt like something I deeply resonated with.' The show she joins already enjoys a considerable following, but Sharma isn't weighed down by the expectations. 'Honestly, I wouldn't say I feel pressure. On the contrary, I'm excited!' she asserts. 'I think it's every actor's dream to portray a strong, meaningful character—and I'm finally getting that opportunity. I'm really happy.' She concludes with a grounded perspective on storytelling. 'Characters are like spices in food—they bring flavor. Without flavor, any dish is bland, and similarly, every character brings something unique to a story.'
