Manasi Parekh on Bold Roles and Regional Cinema: Change Is Happening
From docile wife to action-driven avenger, the National Award-winning actress opens up about Shubhchintak, female representation, and the Gujarati film renaissance.
National Award-winning actress and singer Manasi Parekh, who earned critical acclaim for her role in Kutch Express, continues to champion regional cinema with her upcoming Gujarati film Shubhchintak. Known for her powerful performances in films like Uri, Golkeri, Ittaa Kittaa, and Jhamkudi, Manasi is set to star alongside popular Marathi actor Swwapnil Joshi, who makes his Gujarati debut in Shubhchintak.
Reflecting on her journey and diverse roles, Manasi shared insights into her evolving craft. “In Kutch Express, I played a docile wife. In Jhamkudi, I portrayed a witch haunting a village. In Dear Father, I was a strong-willed daughter-in-law who clashed with her father-in-law’s views,” she explained.
However, her new character Meghna in Shubhchintak breaks new ground. “I play a woman who honey-traps a wealthy man to avenge her brother’s death. It’s unlike anything I’ve done before, involving a lot of action and stunts. Meghna’s character challenged me as an actor, and I’m grateful for the opportunity,” she said.
Manasi believes regional cinema, particularly Gujarati films, is witnessing a significant shift. “More people are watching regional-language films now. In Gujarati cinema, many new stories are being told, and I feel proud to push the bar for strong, female-led narratives,” she noted.
While acknowledging the industry’s historical lack of substantial roles for women, she remains committed to changing that through her choices. “There are more female characters being written now, and I want to contribute meaningfully—both as an actor and a producer.”
Together with her husband Parthiv Gohil, Manasi is also working to revive interest in Gujarati culture through music and film. “We’re trying to make it cool for the younger generation to speak Gujarati, sing Gujarati songs, and embrace our cinema. We truly believe this change is happening,” she added.
With Shubhchintak on the horizon, Manasi Parekh stands at the forefront of a regional film revolution—blending artistry with advocacy, and storytelling with social impact.
