March is a month recognised around the world as the month of International Women’s Day, a period of time dedicated to celebrating women, their achievements, and the many ways they continue to shape the communities, industries and even a family. From entrepreneurs and leaders to creatives and storytellers, women today are building their own paths whilst inspiring others to do the same. In our country, many women are stepping confidently into the digital and entertainment space, wanting to use their voice and platforms to connect with the audience in multiple meaningful ways. Among those rising voices, stands Dharshamini Kesavan.
From Being a Physiotherapy to Stepping into The Digital Media
Dharshamini, often known as Dharsha, has built a name for herself as a Malaysian influencer and a content creator. With more than 79k followers on Instagram, she shares lifestyle content, brand collaborations, food related videos, daily life moments and fun contents with her husband Mr Sasi Kumar. In the past few years, Dharsha has become a full-time content creator.
However, her path into media was far from typical. Dharsha is actually a physiotherapy graduate who once worked in the medical field before stepping into the entertainment and broadcasting space. Overtime, as years went by, her career expanded into radio, television, content creation, and even acting, showing how one unexpected opportunity can change the direction of a life.
An Unexpected Start in Media
When asked how her journey in the media and entertainment space begun, Dharsha shared that is started in a way she never imagined or planned. It just happened when her mother encouraged her to audition for a talent show search content organized by Malaysian No.1 Tamil Radio station ‘Raaga’. At the time, Dharsha was already working as a physiotherapist, but the audition opened doors.
Embracing Change and New Opportunities
Dharsha’s career has moved across different roles over the years. For her these shifts were not accidental but part of a mindset that values learning and growth. When asked what keeps her to explore new opportunities, she shared that curiosity and continuous learning have always guided her choices.
Q: Your journey has seen several shifts over the years. What made you open to exploring different roles and opportunities?
A: My openness to exploring different roles and opportunities comes from a belief that learning should never be limited. There’s a Tamil saying, “Kalavum Katru Mara”, which means “Learn even theft, but forget it.” It emphasizes the importance of gaining broad knowledge, even from unlikely places, while being mindful not to practice what’s harmful. I’ve carried that mindset throughout my journey.
Her outlook reflects a mindset rooted in curiosity and growth, showing how embracing different experiences has shaped the roles she plays till date.
Finding Purpose Through Content Creation
While Dharsha never planned to become a content creator, the journey slowly unfolded through her creative interest. What started as a simple hobby eventually became a meaningful part of her career, especially during the covid pandemic time when she used her platform to support small businesses.
She explained that creating content gave her the freedom to explore storytelling, emotions and creativity, allowing her to connect with audiences in an authentic way. Slowly she ventured into acting.
Stepping Into Acting
Exciting chapter in Dharsha’s career has been her step into acting. After gaining some experiences in media and content creation, she started to receive opportunities to appear in TV projects and productions.
Her first role came through a casting call for the series Iravu Vanangal, where she played the character called Malini. The experience of being on set and seeing how a production and film come together sparked a deeper interest in acting. Since then, she appeared in several projects, such as Idhayam Thotta Kathaigal, Hello, Du Ri Me and recently on Manam series.
Growing Through Experience
With both digital content and now acting as part of her career, she has also experienced the differences in both roles.
Q: What has the transition from digital content to film and television taught you as a performer?
A: The biggest transition for me was moving from having full control as a content creator to working within a larger system in film/television. In digital content, I decide the story, the approach, and the execution, but on set, you work under the directors guidance. You have to listen, you got to trust their vision, and you accept that it’s their call whether the take works or need a retake (or multiple). The pressure is real.
That shift taught me discipline and patience. Being on set made me understand the importance of trusting the script and the process. It helped me grow as a performer and appreciate storytelling in a deeper, more responsible way.
Whether it’s digital or on screen, if you are honest in your performance, the emotion will always reach the audience.
The Power of Support
Behind every journey is often a strong support system, and for Dharsha, is her husband Mr Sasi Kumar, has been her biggest support throughout her career.
Q: Your husband has been a visible part of your journey. How important has having a strong support system been in navigating this industry?
A: My husband, Mr Sasi Kumar is definitely my strongest support. He has been and will a visible part of my journey, cheering me on, giving brutally honest feedback, and always reminding me to stay grounded. He is a huge movie buff, so me being in series and films is a big deal for him. Most of the time, he doesn’t interfere because he wants to enjoy everything on screen without any spoilers. When it comes to my projects, he supports me in his own way by taking care of our home, helping out with contents but never wants to hear the story or spoilers, hahahaha.. That kind of support makes this journey so much easier and more fun.
This industry can be unpredictable and sometimes overwhelming, so having someone who believes in you, celebrates the small wins, and keeps you motivated makes all the difference. It’s not just about encouragement, it’s about having someone who truly understands your journey, your potential and stands by you through it all.
Her words shows how important understanding and encouragement can be when you’re navigating in a demanding industry.
Encouraging Other Women to Take the First Step
As someone who has built her own path across multiple industries, Dharsha hopes her story encourages other women to pursue their passions without hesitation.
Q: What messages do you hope your journey sends to other women who want to follow their passion?
A: Don’t wait for an opportunity, Create it! A decade or two ago, showcasing talent often required auditions or access to mass media. Today, the playing field has changed. With just a phone and an internet connection, you can share your voice, your creativity, and your passion with the world.
If you are talented, consistent, and disciplined, opportunities will find their way to you. As the movie 3 Idiots beautifully puts it: “Pursue excellence, and success will follow.” When you take initiative and stay true to your passion, doors will open — sometimes in ways you never imagined.
As our country continues to see more women shaping their own journey in media and beyond it, Dharshamini Kesavan’s journey stands as a reminder that passion, persistence and courage can lead the paths one never expected.
This is a Varnam Exclusive Feature! Any Reproduction Requires A Credit To Varnam Malaysia.
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook or Telegram for more updates and breaking news.
