Naseeruddin Shah Lauds Sheena Chohan’s Portrayal of Avali, Celebrates Theatre as Actor’s Truest Training Ground

Veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah recently praised Sheena Chohan for her moving portrayal of Avali in the upcoming Hindi film Sant Tukaram. After viewing the trailer, Shah commended Sheena’s layered performance and emotional honesty, calling it a compelling embodiment of craft. During their exchange, Shah encouraged Sheena to watch the Marathi musical Sangeet Dev Bhabhali, suggesting it could further deepen her connection with the character. Expressing keen interest in the film’s full release, he reflected on how theatre forms the core of an actor’s discipline and authenticity. “Theatre,” Shah said, “is the actor’s most honest training ground,” a sentiment Sheena deeply resonates with. Her journey began at Padatik Performing Arts in Kolkata and evolved through years of intensive work with Arvind Gaur in Delhi, performing in plays from A Midsummer Night’s Dream to Gandhi vs Ambedkar. “For me, this wasn’t just encouragement—it was an affirmation,” Sheena reflected. “Theatre shaped my truth as a performer.” With Sant Tukaram set to release digitally, the moment marks not just recognition of Sheena’s work, but a celebration of theatre’s enduring role in shaping powerful, honest storytelling.