Ananya Panday is embracing her evolution — both as an actor and as a person. From making her debut at just 18 in Student of the Year 2 to delivering nuanced performances in films like Gehraiyaan, Kho Gaye Hum Kahan, and Kesari Chapter 2, the actress believes her journey has unfolded right before the public’s eyes.
In a recent conversation with Variety India, Ananya reflected on how growing up in the spotlight shaped her choices and perspective. When asked whether her recent shift toward more layered roles was intentional, she admitted that it was.
“Yes, it definitely was conscious,” she shared. “I was 18 when I started out… still a teenager when I began working, got my first film and started giving interviews. I feel like I’ve grown up in front of people; they’ve seen my journey.”
She explained that while her growth has been natural — much like any young woman transitioning from 18 to 27 — it has also required greater self-awareness because it played out publicly. “I’ve always been an open book, and I still am,” she said. “But now I know where to say what, which I didn’t earlier. I wouldn’t say I’m filtered, but I’m a little more conscious.”
Ananya also spoke about how certain films changed the way the industry perceives her. She believes Gehraiyaan was a turning point. “When someone sees you do something unexpected, they say, ‘Oh, she can do this? We never thought she could.’ That’s what happened with Gehraiyaan,” she explained.
The performance caught the attention of filmmaker Vikramaditya Motwane, who later cast her in CTRL. “He told me he hadn’t seen that mature side of me before,” she revealed, adding that opportunities often follow when people begin to view you differently. She described it as a domino effect — one role leading to another.
Ananya also expressed gratitude for being part of Kesari Chapter 2, noting that audiences were pleasantly surprised by the film and her role in it. She hopes that the makers envisioning her in such diverse parts will continue to open new doors.
Now, with experience and confidence on her side, Ananya Panday is stepping into a phase where she feels more aware, more prepared, and ready to be seen in a new light.
