Bollywood’s rising star, Rasha Thadani, graces the cover of Filmfare’s March 2025 issue, marking a significant milestone in her journey as an actor. With the release of her debut film Azaad, a period action drama that has captivated audiences nationwide, she has proven that she is more than just a star kid—she is a force to be reckoned with.
A Star is Born: Rasha’s Breakout Moment
Alongside her stellar acting debut, Rasha took the internet by storm with her viral song, “Uyi Amma.” The track, which became the soul of the film, showcased her versatility and charm, catapulting her into the spotlight. Audiences and critics alike have showered her with praise, not only for her screen presence but also for her ability to blend youthful energy with the poise of a seasoned performer.
Overcoming First-Day Jitters and Finding Confidence
Reflecting on her first day on the sets of Azaad, Rasha candidly admits, “I was completely blank. I was so scared, but I think that nervousness will always be a part of me.” Despite her fears, she pushed through, learning to channel her nervous energy into her performance. Her perseverance paid off, as her nuanced acting left an indelible mark on the audience.
Pushing Through Challenges: Rasha’s Dedication to Her Craft
Shooting for a period drama is no easy feat, and Rasha faced several challenges during the production of Azaad. Recalling a particularly tough shoot, she shares, “I had just recovered from a high fever and was surviving on ORS while shooting in the peak of summer. It was one of the most difficult days I’ve ever had, but I pushed through because this film meant so much to me.”
Her dedication to the craft was evident as she endured grueling conditions to ensure an authentic portrayal of her character.
Carving Her Own Path: The Legacy vs. Individuality Debate
As the daughter of Bollywood icon Raveena Tandon, comparisons were inevitable. However, Rasha is determined to create her own legacy. Speaking about the influence of her mother, she says, “My mother has worked extremely hard to put herself where she is today. Not only does her journey as an actor inspire me, but she also inspires me as a person. She always handles herself with such grace and elegance.”
While the comparisons persist, Rasha remains unfazed, choosing instead to focus on honing her craft and proving her worth through her performances.
Onscreen Chemistry and Learning Together with Aaman Devgan
Azaad also marks the debut of Aaman Devgan, and the two young actors have shared a unique camaraderie throughout their journey. “We were both learning side by side, holding each other’s hands through it all. Whether it was workshops, horse riding lessons, or dialogue delivery, we worked through it together,” Rasha notes.
Their shared experiences helped build a strong onscreen chemistry, making their characters’ bond even more compelling.
Ajay Devgn’s Mentorship: A Guiding Light
The project had the backing of industry veteran Ajay Devgn, whose presence on set was a source of immense support for the newcomers. Rasha recalls, “Ajay sir was always there for us if we needed anything. He used to mentor us and make sure that we were comfortable. He was so considerate and sensitive and made sure that everyone was doing okay on the sets.”
With a mentor like Ajay Devgn, Rasha and Aaman had the perfect guiding force to navigate the challenges of their debut film.
Battling Self-Doubt and Embracing Vulnerability
Despite her early success, Rasha Thadani is not immune to self-doubt and overthinking—something she openly acknowledges. “I’ve been reflecting on life and dealing with some overthinking, which I sometimes struggle with. Everyone goes through ups and downs. I think it’s important to voice that,” she shares.
By addressing her struggles, she hopes to inspire others to embrace their vulnerabilities and understand that even those in the limelight face personal challenges.
The Phenomenon of “Uyi Amma” and Its Last-Minute Success
One of the biggest surprises of the film’s journey was the unexpected success of “Uyi Amma.” Rasha reveals, “We shot this song just two months before the release. It was all so last-minute! I didn’t even realize how great it turned out until people started coming up to congratulate me. I’m freaking out inside, but I just pretend to be confident.”
The song became an instant sensation, adding another feather to her cap as a rising star in Bollywood.
What’s Next for Rasha Thadani?
With a strong debut under her belt, the industry is watching Rasha closely. While she remains tight-lipped about her future projects, she expresses her desire to take on roles that challenge her and help her grow as an artist.
“I want to explore different genres and work with directors who push me to be my best. This is just the beginning,” she says with a determined gleam in her eyes.
