Disha Patani, the perfect blend of resilience and radiance, graces the cover of Femina’s May 2025 issue, giving readers a rare peek into her authentic, grounded self. Known for her high-octane stunts, magnetic screen presence, and unwavering commitment to fitness, the actor has carved a unique niche for herself in Indian cinema. Her viral workout videos – featuring flawless backflips and intense training sessions – have redefined health and wellness goals for her many fans and followers. In a refreshingly honest and heartfelt conversation with Femina, she opens up about her early struggles, learning to listen to herself, and why portraying strong and layered characters is very important to her.

In the Cover Story, Disha reflects on her journey, from nearly pursuing a career in biotechnology to discovering her passion for acting through auditions. “I started enjoying acting while preparing for scenes,” she shares. “I think I fell in love with it during the process. It wasn’t a planned path, but I’m grateful I took the chance – and that my family supported me through it all.”

Disha speaks fondly of her upbringing: “My father pushed me and my sister to be strong and independent. We’ve pushed cars, changed batteries. He wanted us to be capable – and that mindset has stayed with me.”

Recalling her early days navigating a high-pressure industry, Disha said, “You need to stand for yourself – it took me many years to learn and appreciate that. I started listening to myself more and stopped listening to everyone else… At the end of the day, you need to ask yourself first.”

Selective with her filmography, Disha reveals her rationale behind choosing the characters she has: “Each time I signed up for a film, I was very attracted to the different layers of the characters… I love to play strong characters, and I’d love to play more of those because I believe women are so strong. We just need a little better presentation of them on screen.”

Opening up about her admiration for action cinema and her evolving aspirations, she enthuses, “I would love to do an action comedy film. I’ve not done full-fledged action either. I would love to do an action film, and I’ve never tried comedy, so I would love to mix both and try something.” Her favourites? “Oh, I love John Wick. I love Rush Hour. Great films.”

Beyond her on-screen persona, Disha finds comfort in the simple joys of life – her pets and her love for anime. "When I come home, I feel so loved. Honestly, I don’t think humans can give you that kind of love,” she says. “I love anime. The storytelling is just so incredible. I love action, but the way anime builds its characters and stories is something special.”