The phenomenal actress Puja Cherry has transformed from a wide-eyed child artist into a powerhouse performer, proving she’s here for the long haul. In an industry where transitions are rarely seamless, she defied the odds, proving that child stars don’t have to fade away – they can evolve. In this candid conversation with MWB, Puja reflects on her early struggles, the heartbreak of seeing her first film role cut from the final edit, and the discipline it took to balance academics with a thriving acting career
By Ayman Anika
Some actors find fame; others are born into it. Puja Cherry’s life has been intertwined with the camera since she was in the first grade, making her way from commercials to child roles before stepping into the limelight as a leading lady. But hers is not an overnight success story – it’s one of persistence, reinvention, and a mother’s unwavering belief that her daughter was destined for the silver screen.
From her breakout roles in Noor Jahan (2018) and Poramon 2 (2018) to her recent performances in Jinn (2023) and the upcoming Tagar, Puja has transformed from a wide-eyed child artist into a powerhouse performer, proving she’s here for the long haul. In an industry where transitions are rarely seamless, she defied the odds, proving that child stars don’t have to fade away – they can evolve.
In this candid conversation with MWB, Puja reflects on her early struggles, the heartbreak of seeing her first film role cut from the final edit, and the discipline it took to balance academics with a thriving acting career.
Growing up, did you always want to be an actor?
Honestly, when I was very young, I didn’t have a concrete idea of what I wanted to be. Like most kids, I hadn’t yet considered whether I wanted to become a doctor, an engineer, or something else entirely. Acting wasn’t something I deliberately chose at first – it was something I stumbled into, and I have my mother to thank for that. She’s no longer with us, but she was the one who introduced me to this world.
My journey into acting began when I was in first grade. It wasn’t a planned decision; rather, an opportunity came my way, and I took it. However, my first experience as a child artist came with an unexpected twist. The first film I acted in made it to theaters, and I was beyond excited. I was so eager to see myself on the big screen that I used my own pocket money to buy tickets and invited my entire family, my teachers, my classmates, and even my mother’s friends to watch it. At the time, it was a huge deal – “Puja got a role in a film!” But when we finally sat down to watch it, I wasn’t in a single scene. Every shot of mine had been cut.
That moment affected my mother deeply. Instead of letting it discourage us, she turned it into motivation. She made a silent promise to herself that one day, I wouldn’t just be in a film – I would be the lead actress. Her determination became the driving force behind my journey. And as I grew older and truly realized my own passion for acting, that same unwavering determination took root in me as well.
So, while I may not have always known from the start, by the time I truly understood my dreams, I knew with absolute certainty – yes, I wanted to be an actor.
Do you remember the first time you watched yourself on screen? How did it feel?
It was surreal – almost unbelievable. Watching myself on screen for the first time was a strange and overwhelming experience. Acting in front of the camera is one thing, but seeing the final result on the big screen felt entirely different. I had a hard time believing that it was really me up there.
One of the biggest challenges in filmmaking, apart from acting, is dubbing. I still remember the first time I had to dub for a movie – I was nervous but determined to do my best. Surprisingly, I got it right in one take, which is quite rare for a beginner.
My director was so impressed that he jokingly told me I had to treat everyone to sweets. My mother, being the warm and supportive person she was, took it seriously and actually brought sweets for the entire Film Development Corporation (FDC). That moment – realizing that my dreams were slowly turning into reality – was beyond words.
However, the journey from being a child artist to becoming a leading actress was far from easy. It was nerve-wracking. People had seen me as a child artist for years, and I constantly worried about whether they would accept me in a more mature role as a heroine. Many child artists struggle to break out of their early image, and I knew the transition wouldn’t be simple. But I was lucky to have worked with Raj Chakraborty in Noor Jahan (2018) – his support and guidance meant a lot. I’m also deeply grateful to Jaaz Multimedia for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to prove myself.
Looking back, it was a journey filled with uncertainty, but also one of immense growth. And that first moment – seeing myself on screen – was the spark that fuelled my passion even further.
You had to juggle studies and work at the same time. How did your family support and guide you through that phase?
In the beginning, my mother had only intended for me to do one film before shifting my full focus back to my studies. She wanted me to experience acting but never expected it to turn into a full-fledged career. However, after Noor Jahan and Poramon 2, (2018) the offers kept pouring in – something neither of us had anticipated! Despite my growing presence in the industry, she remained firm about one thing: my education could never take a backseat.
Many actresses choose to leave their studies behind once they enter the industry, but that was never an option for me. With my mother’s unwavering support and discipline, I managed to complete my SSC, HSC, and even my university exams – all while balancing a demanding film career. It wasn’t easy; managing both academics and acting required immense dedication and time management. But I was determined to prove that I could do both.
On set, I was naturally playful, always chatting and joking around. But my mother was strict when it came to my studies. She would carry my books to the set and make sure I finished my schoolwork before doing anything else. She’d remind me, “First, finish your studies – then you can have fun.” At the time, I found it a little frustrating, but looking back, I couldn’t be more grateful for her discipline and guidance. Her insistence on education shaped me into the person I am today, and I owe so much to her unwavering support.
Looking back on your childhood, what are some of your fondest memories?
I grew up in Khulna, a place where culture and tradition are deeply cherished. Films were a big part of our lives, and watching movies wasn’t just a pastime – it was a family event. Every new release was an occasion, with everyone coming together to enjoy the experience. That environment played a huge role in shaping my love for cinema and story-telling.
One of my most cherished memories is of Durga Puja at our home. It was truly magical. Our house would come alive with warmth and festivity as relatives from near and far gathered to celebrate. We would make sweets together, cook special meals, and immerse ourselves in the joy of the occasion. The laughter, the togetherness, the sense of belonging – it was something I treasured deeply.
But as time passed, things changed. Many of the people who made those celebrations so special are no longer with us, including my mother. Last year, we didn’t even hold the Puja due to our loss, and it felt like a piece of our tradition was missing. Those moments from my childhood remain close to my heart, and I miss them more than words can express.
Who were the biggest influences or role models in your life growing up?
While my entire family was always supportive of me, my mother was, without a doubt, my biggest inspiration. She wasn’t just my guiding force – she was the reason I stepped into the world of acting in the first place. From the very beginning, she believed in me, encouraged me, and made sure I had the discipline to balance my studies and my career.
Her unwavering determination and the sacrifices she made for me shaped the person I am today. She instilled in me the values of hard work, perseverance, and resilience, always reminding me that success isn’t just about talent – it’s about dedication and consistency. Even now, every step I take in my journey is influenced by the lessons she taught me.
Your journey began with Bhalobashar Rong (2012) as a child artist, and by 2018, you were leading a film in Noor Jahan. Who played the biggest role in helping you transition from a child actor to a leading actress?
Though I had been part of films before, Noor Jahan was my first true lead role, marking a significant turning point in my career. That transition wasn’t something that happened overnight, nor was it guided by any one person – it was entirely a combination of my mother’s unwavering belief in me and the hand of destiny.
No one specifically mentored me through the process; it was a journey I had to navigate largely on my own, with hard work, persistence, and God’s blessings leading the way. Even now, when I look back, I sometimes ask myself, “How did I go from being a child artist to playing full-fledged heroine roles?” It still feels surreal, but I believe that when you put in the effort and truly love what you do, the right opportunities find their way to you.
Looking back at your early days as a child artist, what were some of the most valuable lessons you learned?
One of the biggest lessons I learned was patience. Many child artists tend to take on projects without considering the long-term impact on their careers. But my mother had a different approach – she was very selective about the work I did. She ensured that I only worked with reputable directors and high-quality projects rather than just accepting every opportunity that came my way.
Because of her careful guidance, I got the chance to collaborate with industry greats like Amitabh Reza Chowdhury on TVCs and work with major brands such as Pran and Square Group. That early exposure to professionalism and quality story-telling played a huge role in shaping my career. It taught me that success isn’t about doing everything – it’s about choosing the right opportunities that align with your vision and future goals. That mindset has stayed with me throughout my journey.
When you read a script, what’s the key factor that makes you say, “Yes, this is a character I want to play”?
Before committing to any role, I always read the script thoroughly or, at the very least, ask for a detailed synopsis. However, even with a strong script, predicting a film’s success is never easy. That’s why my decision-making process goes beyond just the storyline – I take the time to discuss the project with the director, my co-actors, and the production team to understand their collective vision.
For me, the director’s mindset is a crucial factor. Their perspective, passion, and approach to story-telling play a significant role in shaping a film. If I sense that the project has depth, artistic merit, and strong potential, I feel confident in taking it on. But if something doesn’t align – if I feel the story lacks substance or the execution might not do justice to the character – I politely decline. At the end of the day, I want to be part of films that challenge me as an actor and leave a lasting impact on the audience.
Is there a role you haven’t played yet but would love to take on?
Absolutely! I have a deep desire to portray a special child – a character that requires immense sensitivity and depth, much like Priyanka Chopra’s role in Barfi! (2012) or Sridevi’s unforgettable performance in Sadma (1983). Playing such a role would be an incredible challenge, allowing me to step into a completely different world and bring out raw, heartfelt emotions.
At the same time, I’d also love to take on a powerful, intense character like Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022) – bold, transformative, and emotionally gripping. These kinds of roles demand more than just performance; they require complete immersion and a deep connection with the character’s journey. Even if the opportunity comes 10 years down the line, I wouldn’t think twice – I’d do it in a heartbeat.
Speaking of bold roles, Black Money (2025) marked a significant shift for you. You had to gain weight for it, right?
Yes, I was hesitant. In our industry, we don’t always get the luxury of time or budget to gain and lose weight for roles like they do in Hollywood. So initially, my reaction was, “No way, I’m not gaining weight. If they want, they can replace me.” Gaining weight is easy, but losing it? That’s a real challenge.
But then I reminded myself – if I truly want to establish myself as an actress, I have to embrace challenges. And honestly, I consider it a blessing that my body adapts easily. I can gain or lose weight with just a little effort.
So, I took two days to think about it, and then I decided – yes, I’ll do it.
Beyond the physical transformation, I was also initially unsure about playing Shayla. I have always been careful about the roles I take on, making sure that my characters don’t come across as too bold on screen in a way that might overshadow the story. However, at the same time, I wanted to break away from the image of sweet, innocent Puja that audiences had come to associate me with. I wanted to challenge myself by stepping into a character that was completely different from anything I had done before.
In that sense, Black Money was a major turning point for me. It allowed me to step outside my comfort zone, take on a more intense and layered role, and prove my versatility as an actress. Once I embraced the transformation, I went all in – no diet, just sleep and eat! But now that the shooting is done, I’m working just as hard to return to my original fitness level. I’m following a strict diet, avoiding sweets and junk food, and focusing on regaining my balance. It’s been a challenging yet rewarding journey, and I’m excited to see how audiences respond to this different side of me.
Tell us about your upcoming film Tagar. What can audiences expect from your character?
Tagar is a very different and exciting project for me. My character, Joyeeta, is fierce, independent, and completely fearless. She’s not your typical heroine – she’s a strong-willed woman who runs a small business selling accessories from a van and doesn’t hesitate to stand up for herself. Playing her was a refreshing change because she has a raw, unapologetic energy that I haven’t portrayed before.
The film was shot in the breathtaking landscapes of Chattogram, which adds a beautiful, authentic backdrop to the story. My co-actor, Ador Azad, is incredibly dedicated, and we both gave our best to bring this story to life. The entire team worked tirelessly to make Tagar a memorable experience, and I truly believe the audience will connect with its story and characters. I can’t wait for everyone to see it!
The entertainment industry can be incredibly tough, especially for newcomers. In your opinion, what qualities does an aspiring actor need to succeed and stand out?
First and foremost – acting skills are a must. Talent is the foundation of any actor’s success. I’m not saying I’m a perfect actress, but I work hard on my craft, and I believe that effort resonates with the audience. Looks alone don’t matter in the long run – what truly makes an impact is your ability to bring a character to life with authenticity and depth. Acting, dancing, dialogue delivery – each aspect requires dedication and constant improvement. You have to keep honing your skills and evolving as a performer.
Secondly, you need to be selective about your work. Not every opportunity should be accepted just because it’s available. Choosing quality over quantity is crucial in shaping a long-lasting career. Every project you take on contributes to your reputation and the brand you build as an actor. Maintaining a certain standard in the roles you choose ensures that your body of work speaks for itself.
Beyond that, patience and perseverance are key. The entertainment industry is unpredictable, and success doesn’t happen overnight. You have to stay committed, work hard, and believe in yourself even when things don’t go as planned. If you stay focused, keep improving, and make smart choices, your time will come.
Beyond acting, where do you find inspiration? Are there books, music, or people outside the film industry that influence your artistic vision?
Honestly, I don’t get much time to read because my academic books already take up most of my time. But I do make an effort to watch films and series, whether they’re from Bangladesh or abroad. If I don’t have the time to watch them myself, I at least ask people around me what they’ve seen and whether it was worth watching. These conversations often give me new perspectives and ideas.
However, my biggest source of inspiration comes from real life. Observing people – the way they talk, walk, express emotions, and interact with their surroundings – teaches me more about acting than any book or film ever could. For instance, when I see someone selling goods on the street, I pay attention to their body language, their tone, the way they engage with customers. Even the way someone begs for money carries a story – there’s emotion, struggle, and a depth of human experience in those moments.
I also learn from professionals like you. Right now, as we’re having this conversation, I’m observing how you conduct the interview, how you phrase your questions, how you create a comfortable environment for discussion. Everything around us is a lesson, if we’re willing to pay attention. That’s what keeps me inspired – the constant process of learning from the world, from people, and from the little details that often go unnoticed.
What’s your favorite way to unwind?
For me, work itself is relaxation. As long as I’m working – whether it’s acting, rehearsing, or being on set – I feel at peace. There’s a sense of fulfilment that comes with being immersed in my craft. The moment I take a break and have too much free time, I start feeling restless. That’s when frustration creeps in, and I begin overthinking.
So, rather than traditional ways of unwinding, I actually prefer staying busy. Being on set, engaging with my work, and constantly challenging myself creatively is what keeps me happy. It might sound unusual, but for me, productivity is the best form of relaxation.
Acting often demands long hours on set. How do you maintain your energy levels and stay fit despite such a hectic schedule?
I don’t follow an extensive fitness routine, but one thing I never skip is yoga in the morning. Even if I only have 10 to 30 minutes, I make sure to fit it into my day. It helps me stay physically flexible, mentally focused, and balanced, no matter how demanding my schedule gets.
Along with yoga, I try to maintain a healthy diet. Of course, with long shooting hours and unpredictable schedules, it’s not always possible to stick to a strict meal plan. Sometimes I have to adjust based on what’s available, but whenever my routine gets disrupted, I rely on yoga to restore my balance. It keeps me centered, both physically and mentally, which is essential when working in such a fast-paced industry.
What’s next for Puja Cherry?
Right now, my full focus is on Tagar, which is set to release during Eid-ul-Adha. One thing about me – whether it’s a flaw or a strength – is that I don’t take on multiple projects at once. When I commit to something, I give it my full attention, ensuring that I can do justice to the role and the story.
I’ve learned this from experience. In the past, I made the mistake of juggling too many projects at once, and I don’t want to repeat that. It taught me the importance of pacing myself and choosing my work carefully. So, for now, my priority is Tagar. Once it’s wrapped up and released, I’ll take the time to carefully decide what’s next. I want to continue taking on roles that challenge me and help me grow as an actress.
Fashion Direction & Styling: Mahmudul Hasan Mukul | Photographer: Rono Zaman
Make-up & Hair Style: Shamim Makeover | Assistant Stylist: Arbin Topu
Wardrobe: Nabila | Jewelry: Jarwa House | Decor: Eskay Decor
