Bollywood actor Soha Ali Khan is making her return to acting with “Chhorii 2” after a seven-year break. She shares that her journey into parenthood led her to drift away from films, but she has since realized it’s time to rediscover her personal identity.
Soha, recognized for her roles in films like “Rang De Basanti,” “Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster,” “Tum Mile,” and “Ahista Ahista,” gave birth to her daughter Inaaya Naumi Kemmu in 2017 with her husband, actor and filmmaker Kunal Kemmu. Her last appearance on screen was in “Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster 3,” which came out in 2018.
Reflecting on her time away from the industry, she told PTI, “Honestly, becoming a parent consumed me entirely. I became so fixated on my child that I lost touch with films, friends, family, and even my husband. Now that she’s growing more independent, I feel the need to discover who I am again.”
Soha added, “I’ve come to realize that it’s important not to lose oneself. I was one of those who did, and now I’m on a journey to rediscover myself. I love acting, and while I took a break, I’m excited to be back.”
When approached by director Vishal Furia and producer Vikram Malhotra to portray the antagonist in “Chhorii 2,” the 46-year-old actress eagerly accepted the role.
“The actress in me was thrilled at the prospect of playing an antagonist, and I have a passion for horror. It’s such a captivating genre that, when done well, can leave a lasting impression. I remember watching my first horror film at a young age—I was so frightened that I couldn’t sleep for three months! That’s the power of good horror,” she reminisced.
The original “Chhorii,” released in 2021, focused on a pregnant woman named Sakshi, played by Nushratt Bharuccha, who faces malevolent spirits targeting her unborn child. It was a remake of Furia’s 2017 Marathi film “Lapachhapi.”
The sequel continues Sakshi’s story and premieres on Prime Video, bringing back familiar characters while introducing new elements of fear.
Despite her enthusiasm for the role, Soha initially had reservations about her appearance as an antagonist. “I was concerned about how I would portray a slightly monstrous character; I didn’t want it to appear poorly executed or cliché. Indian horror has a unique way of being represented,” she admitted.
“Yet, it was a leap of faith. I trust my team completely, and I’m delighted with the results. After seeing the film, it has far exceeded my expectations,” she concluded.
“Chhorii 2” is a collaborative effort from T-Series, Abundantia Entertainment, Psych, and Tamarisk Lane Productions.