“As a family, we haven’t got such time off together and we are making the most of it”, says Ananya Panday as she speaks about the lockdown

By Subhash K. Jha -

May 22, 2020 - 11:23 AM IST

How is the lockdown treating you? How are you keeping yourself busy?
I am spending most of my time with my family and my dogs. As a family, we haven't got such time off together and we are making the most of it. We’ve been playing a bunch of board games and watching films together. Other than that, I am working out in the evenings on facetime with my friends it’s fun and we stay connected, virtually.

“As a family, we haven’t got such time off together and we are making the most of it”, says Ananya Panday as she speaks about the lockdown

What about Bollywood’s favourite lockdown past time, baking?
My younger sister and I bake together but usually, she bakes and I eat (laughs). I am reading a lot which used to be a hobby when I was younger but I lost touch, so I’m glad I’m getting back to that. I’ve been watching all the old Hindi and English classic films that I hadn’t watched before.

Your career had just started when this nature's brake has been applied. Does it frustrate you to be sitting at home when you should be studio hopping?
I really miss being on set as this has been my life for the last two years. I was literally living life out of a suitcase. But considering the current situation, staying at home is the need of the hour. People’s health and safety is a priority and what we should be focusing the most on right now. Also I am blessed that I am at home safe with my family. I get to spend time with them. I feel, we are in this together and this too shall pass.

How important is the social media to keep you involved with your audience? How active are you on Twitter etc?
I am really active on Instagram. I really enjoy it. Other portals, not that much. I feel, it is a great way to stay connected with my social media family.

After two back to back hits do you feel the burden of pulling off a hat trick?
There’s no pressure of pulling off a hattrick but only to work towards betterment and deliver the best to my audience. I just want to keep improving and learning as I go forward. The most important thing that I am focusing on, is getting better with my skills so that I can give my 100% to everything I take up. Rest, is up to the audience.

How has your life changed after success? How do you handle the fan attention?
I've always wanted to do this and I’m really happy. I like all this attention that’s coming my way. I love speaking to people and interacting with them especially young girls and boys. After my films, everything became so real and I’m grateful for all that love.

Tell us about your forthcoming projects?
For Khaali Peeli with Ishaan Khatter, only the last day of the shoot was left so that’s in the pipeline first. I’m happy because I had so much fun shooting that film that I don’t want it to end - so I’m glad I get to go back on that set! The film was going to release in June but now there will obviously be a change. I was also simultaneously working for my PAN-INDIA project with Vijay Deverakonda. I was all excited to shoot the first schedule of Shakun Batra's film but now everything is on a halt. Everyone’s safety and health is a priority. I just can't wait to go back to the sets!

Who are your best friends in the film industry is it possible to make good friends here?
I am really good friends with everyone I’ve worked with. I’m fortunate to have worked with so many talented, chilled out and fun people which have made my experience of being on sets super enjoyable.

How do your parents react to your link up rumours?
Being a public figure, there is always some news or the other doing the rounds. I am really close to my parents and share everything with them. Sometimes, they know it much before even I do (laughs).

Also Read: Ananya Panday shares pictures from her first photoshoot, proves that she’s a natural talent