Arushi Sharma, a rising star in the world of cinema, is set to make headlines with her role in the upcoming international anthology film, My Melbourne. This project has gained significant attention due to its diverse narratives and the esteemed names attached to it. With segments directed by cinematic heavyweights such as Onir, Rima Das, Arif Ali, and Kabir Khan, My Melbourne promises a deep exploration of complex societal themes, including sexuality, race, gender, and disability, all set against the vibrant backdrop of Melbourne, Australia.
Arushi Sharma, who plays a vital role in the segment directed by Arif Ali titled Jules, expressed her excitement about participating in a project that offered her the unique experience of working with an international cast and crew. “This was an opportunity to get out of my comfort zone,” she remarked. Upon starting the shoot, Sharma was struck by the strikingly different atmosphere of the international film set. “No one pampers the actors. You have to take care of yourself,” she noted, reflecting on the self-reliance demanded by such global collaborations.
The film recently had its Asian premiere at the esteemed MAMI Mumbai Film Festival, an event that celebrates various genres and innovations in film. Jules has already sparked conversations, primarily due to its relevant narrative, which revolves around an Indian woman who migrates to Australia with her husband. As the storyline unfolds, she finds solace and companionship in a homeless woman named Jules, bringing forward touching themes of human connection and resilience amid adversity.
The film was further refined with insights and creative guidance from Imtiaz Ali, a director renowned for his powerful and emotive films. Imtiaz, who is Arif Ali’s brother, served as a creative director for the project, enriching it with his visionary input. His involvement added a layer of depth to the film, resonating with audiences who have experienced similar struggles. Arushi shared a memorable interaction where an African woman approached her during filming and emotionally shared, “This is my story.
. I have felt like this: working behind the scenes while nobody pays attention to what I do.”
For Arushi, working on this project held personal significance, bringing her back into collaboration with Imtiaz Ali, under whose direction she had previously worked in the films Tamasha (2015) and Love Aaj Kal (2020). Speaking on their professional rapport, she stated, “The vibe we share is special. I haven’t met a filmmaker who explains the scene, character, and mood as accurately as he does.” This camaraderie between filmmaker and actor provides a unique foundation for their projects, allowing Arushi to delve deeper into her characters.
Reflecting on her journey, Arushi opened up about a challenging period after the release of Love Aaj Kal, which did not perform as expected at the box office. She shared, “I thought I would get one offer after another because I thought the film would be a blockbuster. But, I had no work for seven months.” During this difficult time, it was Imtiaz Ali’s unwavering support that helped her cope with the setback. “Imtiaz sir told me, ‘People say, you are the best thing in the film. Take that feedback and move forward.’”
Arushi Sharma’s journey through My Melbourne is not just a story of artistic endeavor but also one of personal growth and resilience. Her experiences on this project highlight the challenges and triumphs of working in a multicultural setting, where narratives transcend borders and speak a universal language. As My Melbourne prepares to reach global audiences, Arushi stands as a testament to the strength and adaptability of emerging actors in an ever-evolving industry. Through her work, she continues to inspire others to embrace opportunities that push creative boundaries and celebrate diverse stories.
