Harleen Kaur Rekhi, known for her role in Shrimad Narayan, isn’t just tall in stature but equally towering in confidence. Standing at 5’7”, she’s a striking presence both on screen and off. While some might believe height can be a limiting factor in the acting world, Harleen perceived obstacles into opportunities.
In a recent conversation, Harleen revealed that her height has never been a drawback in her career. In fact, she believes it has played a significant role in shaping the kind of characters she’s chosen to portray. She openly shared,
For years, there’s been a notion that actresses need to fit a certain frame to land desirable roles, especially when paired opposite male leads. But times have changed, and Harleen feels grateful to be a part of a more open-minded and progressive industry. According to her, today’s filmmakers and cinematographers are far more aware and innovative. They know how to use their craft to complement different physiques and appearances without letting technicalities interfere with storytelling.
Harleen spoke about how roles that required a commanding presence and physical stature naturally came her way. She mentioned that her build gave her the ability to embody characters who needed to appear strong not only in personality but also in appearance. “The roles I’ve done required a certain physique and presence. And touch wood, I’ve been able to fit into them well. My height has actually turned out to be a plus point, it has helped me land characters who needed to stand tall both physically and in spirit,” she said.
She acknowledged that screen dynamics do matter. At times, certain adjustments are made to create the perfect visual balance. “Things like body language, camera angles, or even footwear can make a difference on screen. But I don’t consider it a big issue. It’s just part of adapting to the scene and making sure everything looks good on camera,” she added.
More than anything, Harleen is deeply appreciative of the people she works with behind the scenes. She credited the directors, cinematographers, and crew members for handling such situations with ease and creativity. “They’re brilliant at handling it. Whether it’s a romantic scene or a long shot, they know how to make things work visually,” she remarked. Their attention to detail, creative input, and collaborative nature have ensured that she never felt boxed in because of her height.
When asked if she had any advice for other tall women aspiring to enter the world of showbiz, Harleen didn’t hesitate. She encouraged them to chase their dreams without hesitation. “I’d tell them to just go for it. If you believe you can do it, then you absolutely should. Don’t let self-doubt hold you back,” she advised. She believes confidence and authenticity are the most powerful tools in an artist’s toolkit.
According to Harleen, the entertainment industry is in a state of constant evolution. Spaces are opening up for artists of all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds. What matters most is talent, determination, and sincerity. She urged young women to focus on honing their craft, nurturing self-belief, and showing up as their truest selves.
