Ananya Panday, already on a high with the success of her recent project “Kho Gaye Hum Kahan,” is keen on diversifying her acting portfolio. While gearing up for upcoming titles like Vikramaditya Motwane’s cyber thriller “Control” and Collin D’Cunha’s “Call Me Bae,” Panday has her sights set on something even more challenging—playing a legendary figure on screen.
The trend of biographical films has captured the imagination of audiences and actors alike. Intrigued by how actors embody historical figures, Panday recently found inspiration in the acclaimed series “The Crown,” particularly moved by Elizabeth Debicki’s portrayal of Princess Diana. The nuances and depth of Debicki’s performance spurred Panday’s newfound aspiration. In her own words: “I loved how she completely became the character and yet brought so much of herself to it. I would love to do a biopic, transforming myself into someone who already existed.”
The list of legends she wishes to represent on the silver screen is illustrious: the effervescent beauty of Madhubala, the modern allure of Zeenat Aman, the expressive grace of Waheeda Rehman, or the eternal enigma that is Rekha. While Panday is excited at the prospect, she humbly questions her own ability to deliver justice to these iconic roles. It’s clear that she understands the weight such portrayals carry.
Currently, Panday is under the tutelage of some of the film industry’s reputable filmmakers. She speaks fondly of working with Vikramaditya Motwane on “Control,” mesmerized by his directorial prowess and collaborative spirit. “Vikramaditya is a dream director. [While shooting], you don’t realise what you are learning. But later, when you do something [in front of the camera], you realise you had learnt it from him. He wants everyone to grow with him,” Panday recalls.
Her experience on her first web series with director Collin D’Cunha echoes a similar sentiment of growth and enjoyment. Always seeking to improve her craft, she reveals how D’Cunha’s unique approach to storytelling and character has provided her with fresh perspectives and techniques. The two seemingly have a compelling dynamic, with Panday affectionately narrating, “I’d make Colin enact scenes and he’d bring his own funny twists.”
As expectations mount for “Control” and “Call Me Bae,” Panday is not one to shy away from dreaming big. Her desire to transform herself into a character with historical significance is accompanied by an awareness of the dedication required to undertake such roles. Moreover, these ambitions are supported by a streak of daring choice that has permeated her career choices thus far.
Panday’s journey, still at a nascent stage, beckons a trajectory that many young artistes envision but only a few manage to traverse successfully. The roles she aims to secure will not only demand an exploration of different time periods and personalities but also require an immersive understanding of the cultural and emotional landscapes of the characters she aspires to portray.
Yet behind Panday’s evident ambition lies an artiste devoted to her craft, willing to learn and, most importantly, unafraid to take risks. As she continues to garner praise and hone her skills with every performance, an intriguing question looms on the horizon: Will we witness Ananya Panday’s metamorphosis into one of the legendary heroines of Indian cinema?
While the future remains uncertain, it’s clear that Ananya Panday’s passion for acting, coupled with her desire to sink her teeth into substantial and transformative roles, propels her forward in an industry known for its fierce competition and unforgiving nature. As Panday carves her path, eyes wide with determination, her upcoming projects and potential foray into biopics are sure to keep both her fans and critics watching with keen interest.
