Making Of The Actor Shane Has Been Dramatic

As his 25th film, Balti, is set for Onam release, Shane Nigam sits down with Team TNIE for a breezy chat on his career, emotional side, life philosophy and more

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Once deemed a rebel, Shane Nigam today cuts the figure of someone who has weathered storms to emerge lighter, steadier, with an unmistakable twinkle in his eyes. No performance here, just a presence that speaks of reflection, a resilience.

His journey in cinema was never about ambition or design, unlike his father Kalabhavan Abi's position as a celebrated mimicry artist and actor. Shane drifted into one role at a time, guided more by instinct than intent.

There were stumbles along the way, moments that briefly threatened to eclipse his talent. But today, he seems to have moved beyond them, with a clearer sense of who he is and the kind of work he wants to do.

From the sublime 'Kumbalangi Nights' and unnerving 'Ishq' to the urbane 'RDX', he has steadily redefined his on-screen identity.

'Madraskaaran', his Tamil film, and the upcoming bilingual 'Balti', a kabaddi-based sports action film scheduled for Onam, Shane is expanding his horizon while remaining grounded in stories that matter to him. In this freewheeling chat, he opens up about his early days, navigating chaos, attempts to balance art and craft, thoughts on portraying intimacy, and more.

Following up your Tamil film 'Madraskaaran' with 'Balti', a Malayalam-Tamil bilingual. How do you now choose projects with a specific audience in mind?