Ahsaas Channa: From top child star to taking the lead

SHE may only be 24 years old, but Ahsaas Channa has had a 20-year acting career, which has seen her go from being a successful child star to taking on lead roles.

Although the versatile Indian actress has already worked in films, TV, and web serials, she is looking forward to doing her most impactful work with more challenging roles.

Eastern Eye caught up with the star of successful recent serials like Girls Hostel, Kota Factory and Half CA to find out more about her remarkable journey, inspirations, and future hopes.

How do you reflect on your acting journey?

I’m very grateful for it. I also had an extraordinary childhood. Being a child actor, I got a chance to grow up around experienced people and learn so much.

What was it like growing up on set?

Being around people who’ve been in the industry really shapes you into a more mature and professional person, which I was very lucky to experience.

I got good opportunities to work with big stars like Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan. Even as OTT was blooming, I put my foot in it during the right time and got to explore this industry more.

But I still have a lot to do and much more on my list. I work hard towards it every day.

Which of your roles is closest to your heart?

I’m extremely grateful for all the characters I’ve gotten to play, and all are close to my heart. But Shivangi from Kota Factory and Archie from Half CA are closest to my heart since both the characters were very different and amazing.

Which character challenged you the most?

Archie from Half CA was different. I had to put in the effort of learning the entire CA course and get a grip on the nuances and vocabulary of chartered accountants. Also, the character is a timid girl who comes out of her shell and tries to figure her career out. She’s very different from my real self.

What are your fondest memories as a child actor?

Everything about it. I loved how I was picked up from my school and was taken to set directly and how immensely pampered I was on set.

How do you feel being in front of the camera?

It’s my favourite thing in the world, I’m my truest self. I forget about the world. I’m the most confident in front of the camera. I’ve grown up in front of it and would also wanna die in front of it.

What is the acting master plan going forward? 

To become a Bollywood actress. I want to step into mainstream cinema and do good subjects in brilliantly scripted films.

What are your big passions away from work?

I’m passionate about art and films.

Do you have a dream role?

Something along the lines of Fleabag, which is acted and written by Phoebe Waller-Bridge. Ultimately, any good script with a strong role is my dream role.

What do you enjoy watching as an audience member?

I love all kinds of films. I love exploring world cinema as it also helps me work on my craft. I watch it through every lens, whether it’s from an actor’s or filmmaker’s point of view. When I’m not working, you’ll catch me watching a film, always.

Tell us something not many people know about you?

I’m a classic case of ambivert. It takes me a while to open up to new people and be comfortable in large groups.

What inspires you?

My mother. She’s the most hardworking and intelligent woman. Her journey and life stories inspire me. Her dream is to see me do good work and be in films, which inspires me to work harder.

Why do you love being an actress?

I love every bit of it. I get to live different characters and do different things I wouldn’t be able to, had I not been an actor. I can live a bit of a doctor’s life or as a chartered accountant or anything else. It’s my passion. I can’t think of anything else I could do.