I started my career as a model in Delhi when I was 18 and two years later, moved to Mumbai to pursue the career seriously. Around this time I also appeared in a number of music videos, some with stars including Salman Khan and singer Abhijeet Bhattacharya. By 2004 I’d made my Bollywood debut as an actor in Anil Sharma’s Ab Tumhare Hawale Watan Saathiyo starring Akshay Kumar. The film’s release brought me sudden fame and I enjoyed all the attention. A year later, producer Bhushan Kumar and I were married. We met at Anil Sharma’s house when the film was being made.

After this I had the option of living the glamorous life of a big-time producer’s wife, but I chose to work. I was bitten by the 
direction bug and couldn’t wait to start working on my own films. And I was determined not to piggyback ride on my husband to get work. So, I began by learning the ropes of direction. That in itself was a very significant point in my career. I learnt cinematography, followed by film editing, and then began making short films. I even directed music videos and finally started working on my first script.

My debut as a director with the youth-centric film, Yaariyan, in 2014 was a major turning point in my career.  Making a film with a bunch of raw newcomers was by itself a learning experience. The film pushed my creative boundaries and gave me enough confidence to think about making more movies.

Today, I’m ready with my second film, Sanam Re, starring Pulkit Samrat and Yami Gautam. In my first film I worked very hard to get my casting, music and screenplay right. Sanam Re was completed very fast probably because of the fact that I’ve become more disciplined and organised now.‎

I’ve become fearless as a filmmaker. And, even though my husband’s a top producer, I don’t expect him to get me work. It’s important to rely on myself and tap my potential to the fullest. I think that’s how I’ll learn to succeed on my own.

Another beautiful turning point in my life was the birth of my son Ruhaan. Initially, it was tough to balance work and my family life. But after having a baby, I feel that a child can never be a burden. He brings a smile to my face and melts my stress away.

As a director I’m ready to take on any challenge. I’m all for simple and sensitive subjects and I’m still waiting for my next big milestone.

(As told to Sushmita Biswas)