The acclaimed actress wants a break from the rigours of sports-based films. She doesn’t hesitate in seeking outside help to sort out any mental health issues.

By Mayur Lookhar

Acting is a tough job.  It requires great physical and mental strength. Taapsee Pannu has had her fair share of sports films – Soorma [2018], Saand Ki Aankh [2019], Rashmi Rocket [2021]. The latest in line is Shabaash Mithu [2022], the biographical film on former India batter Mithali Raj.

Biopics, especially sports-based films require great physical and mental conditioning. During a group interview with digital media, Pannu opened up about the rigors of doing a sports biopic and why she wants a break from them.

“I want to take a break from sports-related films. It is taking a mental toll on me. I literally have no life beyond training and shooting. Everyday morning, I wake up at 5-5.30 am, do two hours of sports training, then shoot for 12 hours, return home and sleep quickly, or else I won’t have enough sleep to be ready for the next day,” said Pannu.

The hectic schedule naturally leaves her with little time for herself or family.

“I’ve been living this life for two years. I need to have a life beyond work. Hence it is bad for my mental health to continue doing these kinds of films. I don’t mind taking help of specialists to make sure that I have.. [pauses] call it bouncing board or someone who will take my anxieties out of me”, quipped the Shabaash Mithu actress .

Pannu was candid enough in saying that she will not hesitate in seeking help to sort out mental issues, if any.

Says she, “It is a very demanding profession, especially when you are shouldering your films. You are going to be the one who will face maximum repercussions – good or bad. It is not a very rosy position to be in all the time. Whenever I feel like seeking mental help, I do go out and take help”.

If one recalls, some 4-5 years ago, Pannu had opened up on her early depressive phase whilst working in the South Indian film industry. Back then, the Haseen Dillruba [2021] actress had posted on social media how people down south had blamed her for the flop films.  Pannu was labelled as ‘Bad Luck Taapsee’ by few people within the South Indian film industry. 

With couple of hit films – Pink [2016], Badla [2019], and a massive hit in the ensemble Mission Mangal [2019]. Pannu has found a strong foothold in Hindi cinema. Shabaash Mithu [2022] is set to be released in theatres on 15 July.