IMDb, the world’s most trusted platform for movie, TV, and celebrity content, recently honored actor Kani Kusruti with the IMDb “Breakout Star” STARmeter Award. Known for her remarkable performances in All We Imagine as Light and Girls Will Be Girls, Kani was recognized as a standout performer on IMDb’s Popular Indian Celebrities list, which reflects the page views of over 250 million monthly visitors worldwide.
In an exclusive conversation with IMDb, Kani shared her thoughts on her craft, her most relatable roles, and the challenges of being an actor.
When asked which character she relates to more—Prabha from All We Imagine as Light or Anila from Girls Will Be Girls—Kani revealed, “Prabha felt familiar, but Anila was a discovery. When I read Anila, I honestly did not understand her. It took time to get into character, but that also made it harder to step out of her after the film was done. Even now, I sometimes think, ‘How would Anila react in this situation?’ Her physical traits stayed with me.”
On the other hand, Kani found Prabha to be more relatable, saying, “I understand Prabha. I know many women like her. The moment I read it, I understood who she is, but I wouldn’t want to be like her. My upbringing was different, more privileged, so I don’t share her complexities. But I instantly knew her because I know people like her.”
Kani also opened up about the challenges of being an actor. She explained, “The toughest part is to truly become someone else—to talk differently, to adapt their rhythms, their way of sitting. These physical attributes have to come so naturally that they’re seamless. I need time to prepare for this, and when I don’t get it, it’s challenging. It’s only after a few days of shooting that I really discover the character.”
When asked about a piece of advice that has shaped her journey, Kani humbly shared, “I didn’t become an actor because of a childhood passion—it happened accidentally. I was a lover of science and dance, but acting came later. I’ve trained in theatre school and continue to refine my craft through workshops. The greatest advice hasn’t come from words but from observing individuals who have turned into amazing human beings.”
Kani’s insights offer a glimpse into the depth and thoughtfulness she brings to her craft, making her a standout in the industry.
