Indian actor Arushi Sharma is making waves with her latest project, “My Melbourne,” an anthology film offering a rich tapestry of narratives exploring sexuality, race, gender, and disability. This cinematic venture, crafted by a talented team of directors including Onir, Rima Das, Arif Ali, and Kabir Khan, presents a vibrant and culturally diverse portrayal set against the dynamic backdrop of Melbourne, Australia. With Imtiaz Ali serving as the creative director on the film, Sharma is diving headfirst into challenging waters, eager to stretch her acting chops and broaden her artistic horizons.
Even before setting her eyes on the script, Arushi Sharma was captivated by the idea of working alongside an international cast and crew. Her excitement was palpable when she spoke about the opportunity to be part of such a creative and daring project. “My Melbourne,” which had its Asian premiere at the MAMI Mumbai Film Festival, has provided Sharma with a platform to step out of her comfort zone and learn from her surroundings. “The first day on set in Melbourne was truly an eye-opener,” she shares. “Nobody was there to coddle the actors; you had to fend for yourself, and in that process, I learned a lot about independence and the craft of acting.”
Her segment in the anthology, “Jules,” directed by Arif Ali, takes on a poignant narrative centering on an Indian girl who relocates to Australia with her husband. In an unexpected twist, she finds solace in the companionship of a homeless woman named Jules. This story transcends cultural boundaries, as it deeply resonates with audiences from various backgrounds. Sharma recounts a moving moment during the shoot when an African woman, moved to tears, approached her to express how “Jules” reflected her own experiences of toiling behind the scenes unnoticed and unappreciated.
The presence of Imtiaz Ali, who happened to be the creative director and also Sharma’s familiar mentor, added an emotional layer to the project for her. “Returning to work alongside Imtiaz sir was special,” Sharma confesses. “He’s the director behind my debut in Bollywood with ‘Tamasha’ (2015) and later ‘Love Aaj Kal’ (2020).
. His ability to articulate the nuances of a scene, the character intricacies, and the mood is unmatched,” Sharma added, acknowledging the comfort she found in the collaborative and familiar vibe Ali’s direction provided.
Interestingly, Imtiaz Ali’s steady influence and wise counsel played a pivotal role in helping Sharma navigate the rough terrain of the film industry after “Love Aaj Kal” did not achieve the success she had hoped for. Upon facing a dry spell of seven months with no acting opportunities post the film’s release, Sharma found herself grappling with disappointment. “I was expecting back-to-back offers, assuming ‘Love Aaj Kal’ would be a massive hit,” she recounts. But it was during this challenging period that Ali’s words became a guiding light. “He told me, ‘People say, you were the best thing in the film. Embrace that feedback and keep moving forward,’” Sharma recalls, drawing strength from the reassurance.
This phase of growth and introspection has led Arushi Sharma to a moment of self-discovery and maturity. “My Melbourne” not only promises to serve as a milestone in her career for its artistic merit but also marks a personal journey of learning and embracing challenges. Collaborating with such a skilled and multicultural cast and crew has, in her own words, been an enriching experience, one that continues to inspire new perspectives and insights into her craft.
Sharma’s narrative is a testament to resilience and the continual pursuit of learning. As she reflects on her journey, it is clear that with each role she accepts, Sharma is not merely adding to her professional repertoire but is on a quest to expand her creative boundaries. The confluence of diverse storytelling, seasoned mentors, and a willingness to face new challenges head-on makes “My Melbourne” a defining chapter in Arushi Sharma’s blossoming career. It is a mark of how cinema can serve as both a reflection of societal issues and a personal canvas for actors striving to leave a meaningful impact.
