A Face to Face with Shalini Passi: The Break Out Star Of 2024

Q. Ever since starring in “Fabulous Lives of Bollywood Wives,” you’ve become an internet sensation, but what you have been known for in Delhi is your passion for art. So, how would you say your family’s heritage and upbringing have shaped your artistic endeavours ?
My grandfather and grandmother came in from undivided India, and I spent a lot of time with my grandfather. He was into construction and built many important buildings around Delhi — like the Palika Bazaar, the DD building, the Vayubhavan, and many more. So I wanted to become an architect, and I have always enjoyed looking at great architecture and reading about different architectural movements. I started painting when I was very young in school and pursued that passion throughout my younger years. 

Q. How was the experience of working on the show and what do you feel has been your biggest takeaway from this endeavour ?
It was a wonderful experience working on the show, and the realization that if there’s one person in front of the camera, there are 50 people behind making it happen. The camera team, the sound team, the lights, and there’s so much that goes on behind what is happening; there’s so much behind the camera, that is very fascinating.

Q. While you’ve cultivated a commanding online presence, how do you contend with the complexities of safeguarding your privacy in the digital age ? How do you handle scrutiny and negativity stemming from online trolls ?
Yes, I think this is an issue that a lot of us don’t talk about. I think safety is very very important, even on a digital platform and negativity is something that we all face if we put ourselves out there, we have to be ready for it. I have been lucky to get so much love and affection. People from all walks of life are admiring me, and I am grateful for that. However, I feel that, rather than trolling or saying negative things, people should focus on their own lives.

“I express myself in many different ways in the ways I dress, and in the way I live. I think, it is very important for my well-being, and helps me to be more effective in my work if I am creative and if I am happy.”

Q. What are the key considerations when acquiring new pieces for your collection ? How do you strike a balance between your personal aesthetic and the investment potential within the dynamic art market ?
I express myself in many different ways — in the ways I dress, and in the way I live. I think it is very important for my well-being, and helps me to be more effective in my work if I am creative and if I am happy. I love travelling, and I collect pieces from all around the world. I love fabrics and texture prints.

 

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Q. How do you leverage your platform to champion emerging artists and foster growth within the art community beyond your personal collection ?
Well, for me, art is always about how it makes me feel, and the message the artist has to convey. Art is very, very personal to me. I don’t believe in selling art for a profit. Our foundation is also non-profit — where we support Indian contemporary art. MASH has been working in that field since 2018, and we’ve carved a niche in that field. MASH is a digital platform that explores the intersection of architecture, art, craft, design, and fashion in an accessible and engaging format. In line with the mission of the Shalini Passi Art Foundation – to support emerging young artists – MASH hosts a monthly feature on selected artists and their work, and promotes experimental new practitioners through its social media platforms. 

Q. What, in your view, are the most pressing challenges and promising opportunities in today’s art world ? How do you foresee the future of art collecting, both in India and on a global scale ?
The biggest challenge today is the commercialisation of art, which risks overshadowing authenticity and creativity. However, the rise of digital platforms has democratised access, allowing artists to reach global audiences like never before. In India, there’s immense potential as collectors and institutions are becoming more adventurous, embracing contemporary and experimental art forms. Globally, I see a shift towards sustainable and socially conscious collecting — prioritising art that speaks to the zeitgeist of our times.

Q. The ‘Breakout Star of 2024’ what were your most significant learnings from this pivotal experience ? How has it influenced your perspective on success, fame, and personal growth ?
As the breakthrough star of 2024, I think the most important learning for me has been that patience is really important. And things always have a way of turning out. If your heart is pure, and you are ready to put in the hard work, things will eventually come your way. The ‘Breakout Star of 2024’ was a transformative milestone. It taught me that success isn’t a solitary journey but a collective one, deeply rooted in collaboration and shared vision. Fame, while gratifying, is fleeting; what truly endures is the impact you create. Personally, it reaffirmed the importance of staying grounded, open to learning, and true to my purpose. Growth, for me, is about constantly evolving and finding joy in empowering others.

Q. With an ever-growing online following, how do you strike a balance between sharing aspects of your life with the public and safeguarding your personal boundaries and privacy ?
Authenticity is key I share moments that inspire or resonate with my work, but I’m intentional about drawing boundaries. My family and personal downtime remain sacred, away from the public eye. Social media is a tool for storytelling and connection, but it’s equally important to disconnect and live fully in the present. Striking that balance allows me to stay creative and centred.

Q. How do you ensure your influence is wielded responsibly and ethically ? What steps do you take to use your platform to advocate for positive messages and meaningful causes ?
I see my platform as a responsibility rather than a privilege. It’s important to amplify conversations that matter be it gender equality, sustainability, or cultural preservation. I collaborate with like-minded organisations and individuals to ensure authenticity in these initiatives. By staying mindful of the content I share, the artists I support, and the causes I champion, I hope to create a ripple effect of positive change.