Shakeela predominantly worked with older, established actors (like Pappu and Devan). In interviews, she described these as "professional friendships." She famously kept a distance. While Shakeela images from the sets show her arm-in-arm with actors, she enforced a strict "no fraternization" rule after pack-up.
: In 2023, she revealed the end of a long-term relationship with a Hindu partner due to family issues and religious differences. She chose not to disclose his name to protect his privacy after his subsequent marriage.
One of her most notable romantic storylines was in the Tamil film "Sandali Sinna Maanikko" (2000), where she played the lead female role opposite Abbas. The film's success can be attributed to their on-screen chemistry, which was widely appreciated by audiences.
: Since 2003, she has moved toward family-oriented and comedic roles in Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada cinema, moving away from her earlier adult-themed storylines.