SANCHITA PURI, who made a mark in the industry as Anjali in Zee5’s The Final Call, made her debut with Ginny Weds Sunny. SHALINI SAKSENA chats up the actor
How did you get interested in acting?
Since childhood, I had been performing in school plays and continued to do so even during college days. I was working with a shoe designing company and came to Mumbai. I wanted to join acting classes while working. That helped hone in my skills and realised that I could do this as a career. Then I quit my job and took up acting.
How tough was it to quit a well-paying job?
It was very tough. There was a lot of family pressure. They wanted to know why I was leaving a corporate to pursue acting. But I knew this is what I wanted to do and knew that I would make a mark even if it took time. I took this time, I polished my skills and kept training.
From shoe designing to acting. How did that happen?
I was also interested in designing and wanted to pursue it. Acting was and is my passion. I wanted to go into acting when I was in Class IX and X But you know how parents are; always protective of the girl child. So, I decided to pursue designing after Class XII. But then when I came to Mumbai, I was right there in the middle of it all. I was so fascinated with the industry. I fought with my parents and told them this is what I wanted to do. I got some commercials and small acting roles.
You are from Kanpur. Were there adjustment issues when you came to Mumbai?
When I was working, the pace was hectic. Mumbai is a tough place to be. But I followed my dream and worked hard. I was flexible since the aim was to get into acting.
Was it tough to get your first break?
Initially, it was. With time, I sorted myself. Newcomers tend to become impatient and desperate. But I do a lot of yoga and meditation. I realised I was not giving myself enough time. I calmed myself down and things started happening automatically. Ginny weds Sunny came to me in 2019 after I finished training in 2018.
How was the experience of being part of Ginny Weds Sunny?
It was fun. The atmosphere was very friendly. My co-workers were great. We would sit around and chat. Scam 1992 was a quick project which came because I was part of a festival. The makers saw me there and asked if I wanted to audition for the same. I got the script and got selected. Since it was a Hansal Mehta project, I agreed even though my part is very small — just two scenes. Every actor wants to play the main lead but then when I heard the story and about the cast of Ginny Weds Sunny, I liked it and was convinced this was the right movie to begin with.
You have done short films, web shows, theatre and ads. What do you love doing?
I love to be in front of the camera. I also love to write which takes a lot of my time as well. When I am in front of the camera, I feel like I am breathing.
