In an exclusive chat with The Pioneer, actress Sanjana Sanghi opened up about the man who shaped her world—her father. From childhood karate drills on their Delhi rooftop to heartfelt life lessons that now anchor her through the chaos of fame, Sanjana reflected on the deep bond they share. Calling him her “unshakeable constant,” the Dil Bechara star revealed how her father’s quiet strength, resilience and unwavering belief in her dreams continue to guide her journey
Tejal Sinha
tejal.sinha30@gmail.com
In a world that’s often loud and fast-paced, actress Sanjana Sanghi finds her calm in the quiet, unwavering presence of her father. As she reflects on Father’s Day in this soul-stirring conversation with The Pioneer, Sanjana doesn’t just speak about her dad—she celebrates him. With heartfelt stories, nostalgic moments, and profound gratitude, she lets us into the intimate corners of a bond that shaped the woman she is today. “For me, Father’s Day is incredibly special,” she begins. “It’s not just a day—it’s a moment to celebrate the quiet strength and endless support my dad has always been for me. He’s my anchor, the one who taught me resilience and encouraged me to chase my dreams fearlessly.”
While the world may recognize Sanjana as a rising star on screen, her truest identity—the core of her being—has always been deeply rooted in her father’s love and values. Growing up in Delhi, some of her most vivid memories involve learning more than just life lessons—they involved learning to kick, quite literally. “My dad is a karate black belt,” she says, with a nostalgic laugh. “Since I was a little girl, he’d have me doing drills with him on our chhat(terrace)—those typical little rooftops in Delhi homes. He wanted me to be strong, to be someone who could ‘kick ass’ if needed. Years later, when I did my first action film OM with Aditya Roy Kapur, all of that training came in handy! I had rhythm in my body thanks to those childhood mornings.”
But his influence went far beyond the physical. The Dil Bechara credits her father for grounding her in values that continue to light her path in an often unpredictable industry. “He’s been the absolute backbone of my journey. From teaching me to stay authentic in a world that constantly wants you to conform, to encouraging me to pursue an unconventional career, he’s been my silent strength every step of the way.”
Integrity, Discipline, Resilience—These aren’t just words in Sanjana’s vocabulary—they are gifts passed down by a father who led by example. “He’s always told me that excellence is the result of consistent effort. That principle drives me on every set. He also taught me never to be afraid of a ‘no’—that every rejection is a hidden redirection.”
In moments of doubt, when the glimmer of the industry fades and the hustle feels too much, her father’s words are her compass. “He would always tell me, ‘It’s okay to be disappointed, but don’t let it stop you. Learn. Grow. Move on.’ That advice has been my saving grace through many difficult moments.”
One of the most beautiful things about her father, the Kadak Singh fame says, is his unshakeable optimism. “He has this rare ability to find light in the darkest times,” she says, her voice softening. “He lives life with gratitude and grace, even in tough situations. That has rubbed off on me more than he knows.”
Although distance often keeps them apart—especially on special occasions like Father’s Day—Sanjana finds meaningful ways to bridge the gap. “Many times, it’s just a FaceTime call in the middle of a shooting schedule. But whenever I can, I make a quick trip or plan a weekend getaway just to spend that time with him.” This year, her gift to him won’t come wrapped in a box. “The most ideal gift for my dad this year would be time—undivided, heartfelt time. A few days with no schedules, just us talking, laughing, and reconnecting. That means more than anything money can buy.”
Their connection is more than emotional—it’s also delicious. “Whenever we’re together, we head straight to the kitchen. My dad has this amazing collection of kebab recipes—his marinades are magic. Cooking together has become our special ritual. The aroma of those spices, the laughter over a sizzling pan—it’s our way of bonding.” When it comes to her work, her father is her most sincere critic. “He has an incredible eye. His feedback always gives me a fresh perspective. It’s never sugar-coated, but it’s always thoughtful, always loving.” And how does he feel seeing his daughter take on bold, emotionally charged roles? Sanjana says, “He handles it with so much grace. I know it can be tough for him, watching me go through such raw emotions on screen. But he understands—it’s the story, the art. He always appreciates the craft and reminds me he’s proud.”
Interestingly, the learning hasn’t been one-sided. Over the years, the Rashtra Karachi Om actress believes her journey may have quietly taught her father something too. “He comes from a more traditional background,” she says thoughtfully. “But watching me navigate this unpredictable creative world, I think he’s seen how passion and purpose can take shape in ways we don’t always expect. Maybe I’ve taught him a bit about embracing dreams that don’t fit into conventional boxes.”
And if all the lights were off, the cameras away, and it was just the two of them—what would she say?
“Dad, thank you,” she says, her words tender and full. “Thank you for always being my unshakeable constant in a world that’s constantly changing. Your quiet strength, your unwavering belief in me, and the values you’ve instilled in me—they are the foundation of everything I am. You taught me to dream big, but stay grounded. And just knowing that you’re there, guiding me from the shadows, gives me the courage to face anything. I love you more than words could ever say.”
