17th July 2023,Mumbai: Lucknow girl and actor Sakshi Benipuri has no regrets about turning down similar roles to her bold avatar in The Great Indian Murder. She believes in the principle that good things come to those who wait. Benipuri is proud of her upcoming independent film where she portrays a non-glamorous role. She has also diversified her income sources to support herself and has a clear vision for her acting career. She is passionate about promoting Lucknow’s culture and hopes to portray a Lucknow girl in a future project.
Taking the road less traveled
Benipuri reflects on her decision to turn down roles that could have earned her a lot of money. She acknowledges that being typecast is a common phenomenon in the film industry and has learned the importance of patience. She says, “Once people see you in a certain way, you are typecast. It has happened to everyone in the film industry. Over the years, I have learnt it the hard way to be patient. Good things come to those who wait! So, I don’t regret saying no to those roles.” She shares these thoughts during her visit to her hometown, Lucknow.
Slow and steady
While she has played small roles in films like Heroine, Section 375, and AK vs AK, Benipuri is not in a rush. She admits that she has auditioned for bigger and more substantial roles but often loses out to more established actors. However, she remains positive, stating, “It’s not a complaint but what’s mine will come to me.” Benipuri understands that success is a journey and is content with taking it one step at a time.
Embracing a new avatar
Despite the challenges, Benipuri’s recent phase has been productive. She has worked on an independent film where she showcases a non-glamorous avatar. She takes pride in the story being told and feels humbled by the director’s perception of her in a different light. While others may have seen her only as a bold and glamorous actor, the director recognized her versatility. Benipuri will also be shooting for the second season of TGIM (The Great Indian Murder), but before that, she has another film lined up for next month.
Diversifying income streams
Understanding the uncertainty of the industry, Benipuri has proactively developed alternative sources of income to support herself. This allows her the freedom to choose acting projects without the pressure of financial obligations. She maintains a clear vision for her acting career and remains focused on her chosen path. Benipuri states with determination, “Nothing can lead me astray.”
Deepening love for Lucknow
The pandemic brought Benipuri closer to her roots in Lucknow, and her love for the city has grown stronger. She has spent a significant amount of time there and captures its essence through photography. She aims to promote Lucknow’s culture, heritage, language, and cuisine. By freezing these moments in time, she hopes to remember her roots whenever she feels lost. Additionally, Lucknow has become a popular shooting hub, and Benipuri envisions herself playing a Lucknow girl in a project soon. It is a dream she nurtures with great enthusiasm.
Sakshi Benipuri’s journey in the film industry has been one of patience, determination, and embracing new opportunities. She has chosen to follow her own path and not succumb to typecasting. With her independent film, upcoming projects, and love for Lucknow, she continues to carve her own niche in the industry while promoting her hometown’s rich culture.
-by Kashvi Gala