In a candid conversation, the actor delves into how her instinct has shaped her path, helped her stay grounded, and allowed her to focus on what truly matters, not just in her work but in life itself.
CREDITS –
Photographer: Sasha Jairam
Styling: Aastha Sharma
Assisted By: Reann Moradian
Make-up: Séverine Perina (Toabh Artists)
Hair: Humera Shaikh
All Jewellery: Isharya & Diosa Paris
Shoes: A&S
Production: FSP Production
Actor’s PR: Spice Social
Wardrobe: Falguni Shane Peacock
Disha Patani is the epitome of the saying, “Actions speak louder than words.” In an industry that thrives on visibility, constant buzz, and larger-than-life personas, Disha has carved out her own space with quiet grace and an undeniable presence. Whether it’s her standout performances on screen, her effortlessly chic sense of style, or her incredible fitness journey, Disha lets her work speak volumes while she remains refreshingly understated. She doesn’t chase the spotlight—it naturally follows her.
In a world where being “demure” is often mistaken for being shy or passive, Disha redefines it in her own way. She embodies the very essence of the word, not just in the Oxford Dictionary sense but also in the way Jools Lebron so perfectly articulates it for those who understand the subtleties of her character. Her demeanour is calm, collected, and thoughtful, while her career choices reveal a person who is mindful—mindful of the roles she takes on, the impact she creates, and the authenticity she maintains in a business that often values surface over substance.
Despite being a well-known name in the film industry, Disha remains remarkably humble, always saying that she still has miles to go before she can consider herself truly successful. There’s a hunger in her to push boundaries, challenge herself, and grow—qualities that set her apart in an industry where complacency can be tempting.
In this issue of The Peacock Magazine, Disha opens up about something incredibly personal: her deep connection with her instinct, which she describes as her constant. It’s her instinct that guides her through every professional decision and every project she chooses to align herself with. Giving a side eye to fleeting trends and constant change, Disha is on a quest for authenticity, seeking meaning in everything she does—from her career to her personal life.
Q) ‘A successful star at the age of 31’ – how would you describe that feeling?
Disha Patani (DP): I am 31 years old and I don’t think I am there yet. There is so much more I want to do. There is a lot I want to achieve.
Q) What attracts you to the genre of films that you’re choosing to do?
DP: I feel I am a very intuitive person–when I hear a script, I do the movie only if I feel connected with the character and the story.
Q) How do you decide when to say yes to a film project, and when it might be too stressful for you?
DP: As already mentioned I am a very intuitive person and what really matters to me are the kind of people I work with. Sometimes I meet certain directors or filmmakers who are extremely passionate about their work which gives me a lot of confidence to be able to do justice to my character.
Q) Do you regret any of the movies you did because of your desire to push your own limits or experiment?
DP: I don’t regret anything that I’ve done because I think everything has led to where I am. The mistakes you make only make you learn and grow in life.
Q) How do you go about channelling emotions for the tough roles that you’ve played?
DP: I feel I like to stay in the moment and live it fully. I don’t like to overthink while I am doing it as it is very instinctive for me. I do think and try to relate to what the character must be going through. But when I am in the character, it is very instinctive for me.
Q) What’s the biggest risk you’ve taken for any film?
DP: In general, life is a risk and there is no guarantee of anything. You should just do what your heart tells you because that will always be right.
Q) Would you ever choose roles because you want to comment on world affairs or have any social messaging?
DP: Yes, it really depends on what part I am playing and if the story speaks to me and that’s the most important thing while doing the film.
Q) Do you feel like you can be more bold now in the roles you choose as an actress?
DP: Yes, definitely I feel I can make bolder choices now. When I started my career, I wanted to be safer with the kind of roles I was doing. But I feel like I have reached a point where I want to experiment and explore a lot more now.
Q) Would you say that you have a different approach to acting today than before?
DP: I have always been very instinctive. There are different directors and sometimes they push you to take a different approach as well. Certain parts push you to take different approaches. If the character is very unlike me then I have to approach it differently. But if the character is more me and similar to who I am then it’s easier for me to be more instinctive.
Q) Would you say you have more creative energy these days?
DP: Yes, I love creativity. Not just for acting, but any source of creation or art or anything else. I love to be creative and my mind is constantly active thinking of different ideas all the time.
Q) Is authenticity something you find yourself seeking out more and more?
DP: Yes, I love authenticity but all the characters cannot be authentic sometimes. They are at times very intuitional or fictional. As long as you can relate to them as an actor and see yourself in those shoes. Sometimes, if I can even feel the reasons behind what these characters are doing and why they are doing, I think that’s when I feel I can do the role.
Q) What kind of films would you like to do in future? What genres do you want to explore?
DP: I love action as a genre. I like comedy and anything that is dark. I don’t mind doing characters which are dual shades, not just positive but in the negative zone too. I would love to explore more action and rom-coms too, maybe as that is something I have not pursued much.
Q) What projects are you working on next?
DP: Kanguva will be released on the 10th of October and Welcome 3 sometime this year.