"People think leaving medicine was brave—but for me, not following my passion would’ve been the real risk."
1. From medicine to movies—what sparked your shift from doctor to actor?
Deep down, I always knew I wanted to be an actor. I was constantly performing—whether it was on stage, at school functions, or through my Kathak training, which kept me connected to the arts. But sometimes, life needs to unfold a bit before you recognize what’s been inside you all along.
I pursued medicine because I was academically inclined, and at the time, it seemed like the most practical path. But as I grew, my understanding of success began to change. I realized that true success isn’t about titles or traditional accomplishments—it’s about having the courage to follow what you genuinely love. For me, that was acting. So, I gathered that courage, moved to Bombay, and I’m grateful every single day that I did.
2. How did training at places like Strasberg and Adishakti influence your craft?
Those trainings were truly transformative. Coming from a background in Kathak and theatre, I initially hesitated—wondering if structured workshops might make me too ‘technical’ and suppress my instinctiveness. But the opposite happened.
The training expanded my awareness, gave me tools to access deeper emotional layers, and helped me embrace my uniqueness as an actor. At Strasberg and Adishakti, the focus wasn’t just on technique; the teachers opened my mind to infinite possibilities. I believe training is essential for any artist. Like any craft, acting demands both skill and consciousness—and these experiences enriched both for me.
3. Do you find any overlap between being a doctor and being an actor?
Absolutely. At the heart of both professions is empathy. Whether you’re treating a patient or portraying a character, you need deep understanding and presence.
One of my teachers once told me, “How you cut a watermelon is how you do everything.” That stayed with me—because who you are shows up in everything you do. Both medicine and acting require mastery, but to truly excel, you need awareness—of yourself and of others. That blend of skill and empathy is the common ground they share.
4. What’s your approach to switching between theatre, short films, and OTT shows?
For me, the medium doesn’t change the commitment. Whether it's a one-day shoot for a short film or a 50-day web series schedule, my dedication to the character remains the same.
Yes, the technicalities and directorial styles may differ, but the internal process—the honesty you bring to a role—remains constant. Every character deserves the same depth and sincerity, regardless of the format.
5. What’s one technique you learned in training that you still rely on?
Presence. Being fully in the moment—with your breath, your body, your co-actor, and the world of the character.
While each role may require different tools, presence is the foundation. My practices in Kriya Yoga and mindfulness have beautifully complemented my acting journey, helping me stay grounded and authentic in every scene.
6. Has working behind the camera changed how you perform in front of it?
Although I haven’t explored behind the camera as much as I’d like to yet, every off-camera experience—whether assisting, casting, or simply observing—has added immense value.
Working in casting, for instance, gave me great insight into the process. It showed me that, at their core, all actors are more alike than different, regardless of experience. I believe that when you’re intentional about your goals, every experience—behind the camera or elsewhere—feeds your craft. Life itself becomes your best teacher.
7. How do you emotionally detach after intense roles like Chuhedaani?
Honestly, I’ve never had to think about detaching—it happens quite naturally for me. I’m a passionate person, and I give my all to every character. But that deep involvement is fulfilling, not exhausting.
When I return home from set, I don’t feel the need to consciously switch off. It just flows. And if a character lingers after hours, I allow it. I don’t resist or overanalyze it. There’s no fixed process—just trust in the rhythm of creation and life.
My characters never feel like a burden. They live on in me like old friends—always there to revisit when I wish.
8. You’ve worn many hats—what does success mean to you now?
Success, for me, has become less about external milestones and more about inner alignment. Right now, I’m focused on finding my truest voice—to become a clear channel for stories and characters to flow through authentically.
It’s about collaborating with people who want to tell meaningful stories and, above all, being the most truthful version of myself. Only then can I be the most truthful actor.
9. If you had a free day: stethoscope, script, or dance floor?
Why choose? I’d love a script where I play a doctor who’s also a dancer! That would be the perfect day—blending all the worlds I love.
Bio:
Bhoomika Meena is an Indian actress and doctor whose journey bridges the worlds of science and storytelling. Born in Mumbai and an MBBS graduate from Vardhman Mahavir Medical College, New Delhi, Bhoomika began her acting career with Akshara Theatre before training at AdiShakti and the Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute in New York. Known for her compelling performances in Tandav, Slum Golf, Chidiya Udd, and award-winning short films like Chuhedaani, she brings both emotional depth and intellectual nuance to her roles. A multi-hyphenate creative, Bhoomika has also worked behind the camera and is passionate about dance, gardening, and theatre.
Interviewed by: Shantanu Singh
Edited by: Shantanu Singh
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