It’s been a little over a month since Prime Video’s latest young adult series, “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” graced the screens of viewers around the globe, and already Dalai, who portrays the role of Pluggy, has received acclaims for her authentic portrayal. The 25-year-old actress, who took on a character dwelling in the ups and downs of boarding school life, has expressed her elation over the reaction to her performance. Despite not being a part of the age demographic the show depicts, nor having experienced boarding school herself, Dalai finds the reception to her role nothing short of exhilarating.
Dalai’s journey to the spotlight began in her formative years, with a memorable role as Madhuri Dixit-Nene’s daughter in the Bollywood feature “Aaja Nachle” released back in 2007. But it was her behind-the-scenes work as a set dresser on other notable projects like “Phillauri” (2017) and “Hichki” (2018), that honed her craft further. With a knack for multitasking, she expanded her horizons by taking up the responsibilities of an actor and assistant director under Nitya Mehra for the 2019 series “Made in Heaven.”
Fast forward five years, and Dalai’s talents have been showcased once again in Mehra’s “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” a show she was drawn to for its groundbreaking narrative and strong female leads. Breaking away from conventional roles often designated to women, such as sisters or love interests, Dalai relished the opportunity to be a part of a story where women took center stage and men filled the supporting roles of lovers, fathers, and brothers. This significant role reversal played a substantial part in her decision to join the cast.
The talented actress is set to grace the screen in different capacities in the near future. Fans can look forward to seeing her in an upcoming web series as well as a film set against the picturesque backdrop of Goa. Alongside her acting career, Dalai has ventured into the realm of screenwriting, with two female-forward projects currently in the works. In a sincere attempt to strike a balance between her on-screen roles and her passion for writing, she dedicates her time between takes to develop these ventures further.
In addition to her current endeavors, Dalai has also expressed a desire to step behind the camera as a director, once she feels confident enough in her capabilities. Her multifaceted approach to the industry showcases her commitment to storytelling in all its forms — whether in front of the camera or behind it.
Dalai’s diversity in skills and dedication to female-led narratives in film and television bring a refreshing perspective to an industry that often lacks gender-balanced storytelling. Her ability to juggle multiple roles in the creation process signifies not just talent, but a progressive step towards a more inclusive approach to show business.
Underlying Dalai’s growing popularity and success is a tenacious spirit and a clear vision for the kind of projects she wants to create and be a part of. With “Big Girls Don’t Cry” serving as a proof of concept that audiences crave authentic and empowering stories, Dalai is set on a trajectory that promises to elevate both her career and the portrayal of women in the industry.
As Dalai continues to pursue her multifaceted career, she offers a beacon of inspiration for aspiring artists who look to wear many hats in the entertainment industry. Her story resonates with the message that versatility and a dedication to challenging traditional narratives can indeed pave the way for a fulfilling and impactful career in the arts.
