‘I immerse myself completely in the script and improvise on my own…’: Sonam Chhabra

Actor and presenter Sonam Chhabra describes her lifestyle as ‘splitting my time between the spotlight and the slow life’. Making glam appearances on the red carpet at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, she appears as a picture of sheer poise and charisma, wowing her following of over half a million on social media.

She won hearts as Dr Farah in the popular OTT show ‘Made in Heaven’, after her successful run in ‘Kuch Kehna Tha Tumse’. Up next is another short, with her playing the lead.

Sonam is a multi-faceted artist, monikered as one of the country’s ace live hosts. She has carved a niche for herself as an ardent vegan, mental wellness advocate and animal lover. ‘Kirket’ marked her Bollywood debut, and the foot-tapping number ‘Dil Lutgayi’ won her applause. As a versatile performer, Sonam has won hearts on the television engaging with audiences through ‘Safar Kamyabi Ka’ on the small screen.

Excerpts from a conversation with Shilpi Madan.

How has the journey been so far in the field of glamour?

The journey has been nothing short of incredible. As a performing artist and creator, all the incredible love and support from my audience has made every step deeply fulfilling for me. I feel blessed.

What energises you the most - live hosting, modelling or acting? Do you believe in destiny?

I believe in my versatility as an artiste. I feel each form brings its own thrill, but there’s something electric about being live - it is just so raw and real. And yes, I truly believe destiny plays a beautiful role in where we land.

What has been the turning point in your career?

God has been kind. There have been a few milestones, but the true turning point was when I started aligning my work with my passion - it changed everything, dramatically.

My father’s constant support and belief in me have been my greatest strength through every phase in life

How do you prep for your roles?

I immerse myself completely in the script and improvise on my own - understanding the character’s emotional world, backstory and intentions. Preparation is sacred, as I have always believed. It brings authenticity to the screen, and that winsome edge to the performance.

Share with us your fitness routine.

My routine is simple and sustainable - yoga helps me center myself and morning walks are my special way of connecting with Nature. Wellness is a way of life for me and I have been practising this for years. Keep it simple is my anthem.

Reality shows, soaps or movies - what’s your pick?

Live reality shows and films are my absolute favourites - the spontaneity of one and the storytelling of the other really excite me unbelievably. There is so much of latitude that the roles bring with them.

Something you are grateful for in life?

My father - his constant support and belief in me have been my greatest strength through every phase of my life. He is truly my Rock of Gibraltar.

What has been your biggest learning?

To truly value time with your loved ones - life moves fast, and those moments are what matter the most in the end. I have learnt to prize these moments immeasurably.

What’s next?

I’m working on a project that’s very close to my heart - something fresh and exciting is coming soon, and I can’t wait to share it with all my fans. I am also listening to many scripts and am in the process of finalising a few more projects.