Sheena Chohan Highlights Kalaripayattu on World Health Day

Mumbai: Marking World Health Day on April 7, actress Sheena Chohan drew attention to the timeless benefits of Kalaripayattu, the 3,000-year-old martial art from Kerala that has shaped her approach to fitness and well-being.

Observed annually to commemorate the founding of the World Health Organization, this year’s World Health Day carried a special resonance for the actress, who has consciously adopted what she calls an “actress-athlete” mindset — one built on strength, awareness, and daily discipline.

For Sheena, true wellness is not limited to physical appearance. At the centre of her routine is Kalaripayattu, a holistic practice that develops agility, flexibility, endurance, and mental clarity. Far more than a martial art, it serves as a complete discipline that nurtures both body and mind, helping her navigate the demanding world of Indian cinema with greater balance and focus.

Her commitment is clearly visible in her film preparations. In the pan-India film Jhatasya Maranam Dhruvam, Sheena essays the role of a cop, requiring authentic physical power and stamina. For an upcoming Tamil project currently in the works, her training brings added intensity and realism to her character. In the Tamil folk drama Bhayaavah, where she plays a fierce she-devil, the actress channels her agility through challenging harness sequences and high-energy combat scenes.

Trained in multiple martial arts and a brown belt in Karate, Sheena recently showcased her rigorous stick practice, reflecting precision, control, and deep concentration. Reflecting on her journey, she shared, “Every fitness journey has a story, and mine is rooted in discipline, movement, and mastery of craft. Kalaripayattu has taught me that fitness is not just about how you look — it’s about how you move, how positive you feel, and how present you are in every moment.”

Sheena maintains this philosophy through a strict yet sustainable lifestyle. She commits to two daily workouts of at least 45 minutes each, including one outdoor session. Her diet is clean and consistent, she consumes no alcohol, and she diligently tracks her hydration, aiming for 3.8 litres of water every day — a habit she upholds even during hectic shooting schedules.

Equally important to her is mental well-being. Through regular reading and mindfulness practices, Sheena works steadily to build inner strength and emotional resilience. Her guiding principle remains simple: show up every day with discipline and genuine intent.

In an industry often driven by short-term goals and external validation, Sheena Chohan’s approach offers a refreshing perspective. By integrating the ancient wisdom of Kalaripayattu with modern dedication, she demonstrates that lasting fitness is a lifelong pursuit rooted in consistency and self-awareness.

Professionally, Sheena has an exciting line-up ahead. She will soon appear in Jhatasya Maranam Dhruvam, Arjunanin Allirani, the Tamil folk drama Bhayaavah, and the Hollywood film Nomad. Several additional projects are expected to be announced in the coming months.

This World Health Day, Sheena Chohan’s story serves as a powerful reminder that real strength comes from within. Through her dedication to Kalaripayattu and a balanced lifestyle, she shows that true well-being emerges when body, mind, and discipline work together in harmony.