Ahsaas Channa’s journey as a child actor remains a unique story in Bollywood. From playing boy characters in films like Vaastu Shastra and Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna to becoming a rising star on OTT platforms, her career path was shaped not just by her talent but also by her mother’s watchful eye.
In an exclusive interview with Hindustan Times, Ahsaas recalls how her mother decided to pause her child-acting career when she was on the brink of adolescence. The reason? To protect her mental well-being.
Ahsaas’ early roles were unconventional for a young girl. She frequently portrayed boys on-screen, a decision driven by her acting versatility. However, her mother soon realized the potential psychological impact this might have. “My mother was always conscious about my growth, both as a person and as an actor,” says Ahsaas. “She didn’t want my identity to get blurred at such a critical stage of life.”
Her mother’s concerns stemmed from the pressures of balancing reel and real life. “I was very aware that I was a girl,” Ahsaas explains. “I lived as myself in school and only played characters on screen. But as I approached puberty, my mom felt it was important to avoid any confusion or stress during those formative years.”
The decision to take a break was not easy, but Ahsaas acknowledges it was the right one. “My mom told me it was time to pause. She believed I needed space to grow into myself before continuing in the industry. Looking back, I’m so grateful for that decision.”
During the break, Ahsaas focused on her education and personal growth. It was a time to step away from the limelight and prepare for her eventual return, which coincided with the OTT boom.
Now 25, Ahsaas has transitioned seamlessly from a child actor to a young star in her own right. Her mother’s decision, once a protective measure, has proven to be a turning point in her career. “It gave me a chance to reset and come back stronger,” she says.
As she navigates her career today, Ahsaas credits her mother for laying the foundation of her resilience. “She knew when to push and when to pull back. That balance is why I’m here today,” Ahsaas concludes.