Once a prominent face of Bollywood in the 1990s, Sheeba Akashdeep Sabir has transitioned from leading roles to impactful character portrayals. From her recent appearance in Fateh, which tackles the critical issue of cybercrime, to her reflections on the ever-evolving film industry, Sheeba remains as insightful as ever. In this exclusive interview, the actress opens up about the challenges of making a comeback, and gender disparities in the entertainment industry. Sheeba also shares her opinion on the recent attack on Saif Ali Khan and ’90s star Mamta Kulkarni taking sanyaas. Excerpts:
You were recently seen in Fateh. What drew you to this story and your role?
I was excited to be part of Fateh, especially since it was Sonu Sood’s first film as a director. I felt he had an interesting story to tell, and cybercrime is such an important topic right now. I was happy to be part of something so current. The role gave me a chance to try something new, which made it even more exciting for me.
You were once a leading lady in Bollywood, and now you’re taking on character roles. How has this transition been for you?
Now, I’m taking on character roles because that’s how it usually works for actresses in Bollywood. While actors often continue playing the hero even decades later, it’s not the same for heroines, as our time as leading ladies is more limited. At this stage, you just choose roles that seem interesting and keep you engaged. When you come across something that requires you to mentally prepare yourself, you learn not to take it too seriously. Once you start taking things lightly, it feels much easier to accept and move on.
Many actors find it challenging to make a comeback in the industry. Can you share some of the struggles you faced while reclaiming your space in Bollywood?
I wouldn’t really call it a comeback because I’m still testing the waters. I’m doing a little bit here and there, trying different things. Right now, I’m working with some of the bigger names in Bollywood so that it becomes easier for me as I move forward. I don’t want to repeat the mistakes I made when I was younger. Back then, I didn’t pay much attention to who the producers or makers were, I was a bit careless about that. But I’m much more mindful now.
When you look back at your decision to do TV shows after doing films, do you see it as a brave career experiment, or was it a choice driven by circumstances?
Television came my way by chance, and I was happy to give it a try. I worked only with some of the biggest names in the industry, like Balaji and Rajan Shahi, who are two of the most well-known producers in television. Because of this, I don’t see my work in television as an experiment or something I was unsure about. These days, the focus is more on the character you’re playing rather than the platform you’re on.
How has the industry’s perception of women in film and TV changed now?
The perception has changed a lot over the years. In my time, it wasn’t acceptable for women in the industry to even be seen with someone, let alone get married. If an actress did get married, her career would often come to a pause, and she wouldn’t be considered for roles anymore. But now, I’m happy to see how things have changed. Today, many A-list actresses are married, and it doesn’t affect their careers at all. They are still getting lead roles, delivering hits, and being considered for major parts. It’s a big step forward, and I find it encouraging. The pay gap between male and female actors is still significant. However, it has gotten better compared to how it was in the past, which is a positive change.
Do you ever feel Bollywood has a shelf life for heroines but not for heroes?
In the film industry as a whole, be it Hollywood, Bollywood, or Tollywood, there is, unfortunately, a shelf life for heroines. That’s just the way it is, and it has always been like that.
Actors admit to feeling forgotten when they step away from the limelight. Did you ever face moments where you felt the industry moved on without you?
No, I wouldn’t say forgotten. You don’t experience the same excitement you did when you were working full-time, but people who have acted in films are often remembered for many decades, even long after they’ve stopped working. That’s the magic of cinema. And with older films being re-released and replayed on digital platforms, the feeling of being forgotten is reduced. It’s not the same level of euphoria when you step out, but it’s okay.
A lot of comeback stories are celebrated only if they’re backed by big banners or male stars. Do you think women in Bollywood get the same second chances as men?
It’s quite clear that comeback stories are celebrated when you’re supported by a big production house or a major star. Without that support, people may not even notice you or care about your return. Naturally, there’s going to be more attention around your comeback if you’re backed by a bigger banner that attracts a wider audience. While I don’t believe women always get the same opportunities as men, sometimes you do get lucky.
Recently, actress Mamta Kulkarni, who also starred in hit films of the 1990s, announced her decision to take sanyaas… What would you like to say about that?
Maybe Mamta discovered spirituality. It happens sometimes, even to the best of people. At a certain point in life, you reach a stage where you feel like you’ve experienced it all. You’ve fulfilled all your responsibilities to your family and work, and now you can take time for yourself to reflect and look inward. Perhaps that’s what she’s seeking, and I wish her all the very best in this new phase of her life.
You’ve done a film with Saif Ali Khan as well. Are you still in touch with him?
I have worked with Saif and we were also neighbours. We lived very close to each other as well and we did hang out before but I’m not in touch with him anymore.
What would you like to say about the recent attack on Saif. Do you think Mumbai is not safe for actors anymore?
What happened to Saif is really unfortunate, and I hope he’s doing okay and that everything is fine with his family. It’s a scary thing to hear about, and it’s something that can frighten anyone. It’s not that actors are specifically in danger, but the world itself can feel unsafe sometimes. We all need to take security more seriously. It’s not just Mumbai that feels unsafe, it’s everywhere. You have to be careful and aware, whether you’re out on the street or at home. It’s sad that I even have to mention ‘at home’, because we all think of our homes as the safest place. What happened with Saif has made us all take a hard look at our own safety measures.
