Konkona Sen Sharma – Biography
Early Life & Background
Konkona Sen Sharma was born on December 3, 1979, in New Delhi, India. She comes from a family deeply rooted in Indian cinema and literature. Her mother, Aparna Sen, is an acclaimed filmmaker and actress, and her father, Mukul Sharma, was a science writer and journalist. Konkona grew up in Kolkata and pursued her education at St. Stephen’s College, Delhi, where she majored in English Literature.
Entry into Acting
Konkona made her acting debut as a child artist in the Bengali film Indira (1983). However, her breakthrough performance came in her mother Aparna Sen’s film Mr. and Mrs. Iyer (2002), where she played a Tamil Brahmin woman. Her performance won her the National Film Award for Best Actress, bringing her national recognition.
Career Highlights
Konkona is known for her strong performances in both parallel cinema and mainstream Bollywood.
- Breakthrough & Critical Success (2000s)
- Page 3 (2005) – A hard-hitting film on media and celebrity culture; won her Filmfare Best Actress (Critics) Award.
- Omkara (2006) – An adaptation of Othello, where she played Indu, earning her the Filmfare Best Supporting Actress Award.
- Life in a… Metro (2007) – A role that won her a second Filmfare Best Supporting Actress Award.
- Wake Up Sid (2009) – Starred opposite Ranbir Kapoor in a critically acclaimed role.
- Diversification & Directorial Debut (2010s – Present)
- Talvar (2015) – A gripping crime drama based on the Aarushi Talwar case.
- Lipstick Under My Burkha (2016) – A bold film exploring women’s desires and societal norms.
- Directorial Debut – A Death in the Gunj (2017) – A psychological drama that received widespread acclaim and multiple awards.
Awards & Recognition
- 2 National Film Awards (Mr. and Mrs. Iyer, Omkara).
- 4 Filmfare Awards, including Critics’ Choice.
- Multiple Bengal Film Journalists’ Awards for her Bengali films.
Personal Life
Konkona was married to actor Ranvir Shorey in 2010, and they have a son, Haroon. The couple later separated but remain on good terms.
Legacy & Impact
Konkona Sen Sharma is celebrated for her realistic performances, strong feminist roles, and contribution to Indian independent cinema. She continues to balance acting and filmmaking with a focus on meaningful storytelling.
