Chahat Khanna, known for her performances in popular TV shows like Bade Achhe Lagte Hain, Qubool Hai, and films such as Prasthanam, has carved out a unique space for herself in the entertainment industry. Despite her selective approach to roles, Chahat has left an indelible mark on the industry. As she currently garners attention for her work in Pati, Patni Aur Kaand, she opens up about her life’s journey, her passion for acting and writing, and the challenges she’s faced along the way.
Wearing the Uniform as a DCP Gave Me Goosebumps
In her latest project, Pati, Patni Aur Kaand, Chahat portrays a DCP (Deputy Commissioner of Police), a role that was both challenging and exhilarating for her. “I never imagined I would play the role of a cop,” she shares. “Wearing the uniform gave me goosebumps. It’s a powerful feeling to step into the shoes of someone responsible for law and order.”
Chahat, who has a wide circle of friends in law enforcement, politics, and the legal world, found the experience deeply humbling. The role also required her to perform action sequences, including shootouts and encounters, for which her background in martial arts came in handy. “I never thought my martial arts training would be so useful in my acting career, but it was essential for this role,” she says.
I Choose Only One or Two Projects Out of Ten
Despite her success, Chahat is known for her selective approach to roles. “You don’t see me often on screen because I’m very choosy about my projects,” she explains. “I get angry when I’m offered the same kind of role repeatedly. That’s why I pick only one or two out of every ten offers.”
Chahat’s focus has shifted over the years from quantity to quality. “In the beginning, I wanted to do everything, but now, for the last decade, I’ve been more focused on doing work that I’m truly passionate about,” she shares. While not every project she’s worked on has become a hit, Chahat finds satisfaction in knowing that she has given her best. “Success is a matter of fate, but as an artist, it’s important to be proud of your work.”
My Mother’s Advice and the Struggles I’ve Overcome
Chahat recalls the invaluable advice her mother gave her, which continues to guide her decisions today. “My mother always said, ‘Listen to everyone, but do what feels right to you.’ I try to follow that advice in everything I do,” she says. Her mother’s wisdom also helped her navigate the challenges of being a public figure, especially when it came to sharing her personal life on social media. “People told me not to post pictures of my children, but I remembered my mother’s advice and decided to do what felt right to me.”
Reflecting on her journey, Chahat doesn’t see herself as someone who has struggled a lot, despite the challenges she has faced. “My career started early, so I’ve experienced and learned things at 30 that others might encounter at 50,” she says. Her early start in the industry, combined with her mother’s support, has been instrumental in shaping her into the resilient and successful woman she is today.
A Special Connection to Lucknow and My Love for Biryani
Chahat has fond memories of her visits to Lucknow, a city that holds a special place in her heart. “I first came to Lucknow in 2019 for the shooting of Prasthanam,” she recalls. “Since then, I’ve visited Ayodhya for darshan and keep coming back to Lucknow.”
She has a deep appreciation for the city’s culture, especially its traditional attire. “I love Lucknow’s chicken kurtas, and when it comes to food, Lucknowi biryani is my absolute favorite,” she says with a smile. Chahat also shared a memorable experience from a shoot in a village near Lucknow. “We were shooting an encounter sequence when the real police showed up and checked our weapons because so many of us were dressed as cops on set. It was quite an experience!”
The First Phone and My Journey as a Writer
Chahat’s journey into the entertainment industry began at a young age. At just 14, she started working as a dance teacher, earning her first salary of Rs 1500. She later transitioned into acting, landing her first ad for a chocolate brand, which paid her Rs 2500 per day. “My mother sold her gold earrings so I could buy my first phone,” she recalls. “I still have that phone. Once, I left it on a bus and ran a kilometer to get it back.”
In addition to her acting career, Chahat has always had a passion for writing. “I’ve loved writing since childhood,” she shares. “I’ve written many scripts, though I haven’t directed anything yet. But I hope to bring something new to the audience soon.”
Chahat’s love for storytelling extends beyond acting, as she has also ventured into theater and has ambitions of directing plays in the future. “Whether it’s TV, films, OTT, or stage performances, if the work gives me satisfaction, I’m happy to do it,” she says.
Balancing Work and Motherhood
Chahat’s dedication to her work is matched by her commitment to her role as a mother. “When you become a mother in real life, you start getting offers to play motherly roles onscreen,” she notes. “I’ve accepted some of these roles, but I never let my work interfere with my responsibilities as a parent.”
Despite her busy schedule, Chahat has never missed a single parent-teacher meeting (PTM) for her daughter. “Other parents might miss these meetings, but I’m always there,” she says proudly. “Her football matches, tournaments, and all her activities are just as important to me as my work.”
As Chahat Khanna continues to navigate her career with grace and determination, she remains a role model for many, both as a talented actress and a devoted mother. Her journey is a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and the unwavering support of a loving family.
