Annsh Shekhawat - Miss India Elite"Best Personality Award" & Founder Of 'As Fitnation' (National Badminton Player, Founder, Actress)

"I still play badminton out of passion, but my focus is now on acting and my activewear brand, ‘AS Fitnation'."

1. Can you share your journey from Sri Ganganagar to the Hindi Film Industry?

My journey has been full of ups and downs, probably like many others. It all started with my passion for dancing and athletics, particularly badminton, during high school. I was always the center of attention during school events, which motivated me to make a name for myself. Despite my family's initial reservations about my participation in competitions, they supported me. I participated in Dance India Dance, and my father would drive me to the events. Although my family preferred I focus on academics, I found success in modeling and dance competitions during college. After completing my education, I moved to Mumbai in 2017 to pursue a career in the film industry.

2. How has your education in BCA and animation influenced your career?

My education in BCA and animation didn't directly influence my film career. However, during my studies, I continued participating in dance competitions and received positive feedback. This encouragement led to my first modeling shoot for a jewelry brand, which went well. I also participated in the "Miss India Elite" competition, where I was a top 5 contestant. This opened more opportunities in advertising and modeling. I believe in destiny, and these experiences guided me towards the film industry.

3. Can you tell us about your role in the short film “Station Master” and its Filmfare recognition?

I was advised to audition for a good film on the horizon, and I was selected as the lead actress for "Station Master." Although the role was short, the story was compelling. The audience loved the film, and it received Filmfare recognition, which was a significant achievement.

4. How do you balance your career and passion for national-level badminton?

I quit playing badminton professionally a long time ago, but I still play occasionally due to my passion for the sport. Currently, I am focused on my acting career, driven by the same passion and determination I had in my younger days playing sports. I have also launched my activewear brand, “AS Fitnation,” balancing my time between acting and business.

5. What’s the biggest challenge and reward in working across different entertainment mediums?

The entertainment industry requires a lot of patience and commitment. Unlike a corporate job with steady income, the entertainment industry is unpredictable. One year you might have several projects, and the next year none. Patience and continuous hard work are essential. I believe that hard work will eventually be rewarded, and everything happens at the right time.

6. How do you prepare for diverse roles in short films and commercials?

As an actor, one must be prepared for various roles. I regularly audition and practice different types of roles, seeking feedback from industry veterans. Observing life and surroundings also helps me learn. Luck also plays a part, but staying connected in the industry and continually giving auditions is crucial.

7. What’s a fun fact about you that fans might not know?

Many people don’t know that I can mimic personalities and I have a talent for singing, cooking, and painting.

Bio: 

Born in Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan, Annsh Shekhawat hails from a middle-class family and has played badminton at the national level since 5th grade. Transitioning from a professional athlete to a film actress, she is also a model and has been making waves in the industry. Faced with a choice between sports and acting, she moved to Mumbai with her family's support to pursue a career in film. With commitment, patience, and hard work, she has appeared in numerous music videos, commercials, short films, and documentaries, including “The Indrani Mukherjee Story: Buried Truth.” In 2016, she participated in Miss India Elite, winning the Best Personality award. A firm believer in hard work and driven by passion, she launched her activewear brand “AS Fitnation” in 2024.

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Interviewed by: Shantanu Singh 

Edited by: Mishika Goel