Mumbai: Actor Ananya Panday has emerged as an example of persistence and growth in Bollywood, according to film critic and industry executive Rajeev Masand. Reflecting on her journey, Masand highlighted how the actor worked hard despite early criticism and gradually carved a niche for herself in the industry.
Ananya, who made her debut with Student of the Year 2, initially faced mixed to negative reviews for her performance. However, over time, she has earned appreciation for her roles in projects like Gehraiyaan and Call Me Bae.
Rajeev Masand on her growth
Speaking on a podcast with Unfiltered Entertainment, Masand, who is associated with Dharma Cornerstone Agency, spoke about the importance of self-awareness and collaboration in building an actor’s career.
He noted that many actors struggle due to a lack of clarity about their strengths, adding that success requires both ambition and the willingness to listen. According to him, career positioning is not something that can be done by a team alone it requires active participation from the actor.
Masand described Ananya Panday as a “strong example” of this approach, stating that she demonstrated ambition early on and was open to feedback. He emphasised that her ability to listen and adapt played a key role in shaping her career trajectory.
Finding her niche in urban roles
Masand revealed that Ananya consciously chose to focus on roles that suited her strengths. He said the actor identified herself as being well-suited for English-speaking, urban characters and decided to build her career around such roles while gradually expanding her range.
He pointed out that her performance in Gehraiyaan stood out because she convincingly portrayed a relatable character while also handling emotionally demanding scenes. Similarly, her role in Call Me Bae showcased her ability to carry a challenging part with confidence.
This strategic approach, he suggested, helped her transition from being criticised early in her career to gaining recognition for her performances.
From criticism to acceptance
Like several young actors, Ananya Panday was also part of the wider “nepotism” debate that sparked discussions across the film industry. Masand acknowledged that she, along with others, faced significant public scrutiny during that phase.
However, he noted that her willingness to work hard and improve allowed her to gradually win over audiences. He added that aligning personal goals with the right projects and brand choices is essential for long-term success in the entertainment industry.
Upcoming projects
On the professional front, Ananya Panday is preparing for the release of her upcoming romantic drama Chaand Mera Dil. The film, directed by Vivek Soni and backed by Dharma Productions, also stars Lakshya in a lead role.
The film is scheduled to hit theatres on May 22 after being delayed from its earlier release timeline. In addition, the actor is expected to return with the second season of Call Me Bae, further expanding her presence in the digital space.
Conclusion
Ananya Panday’s journey reflects the evolving nature of success in Bollywood, where persistence, adaptability and self-awareness play a crucial role. As industry voices like Rajeev Masand highlight her growth, the actor’s trajectory underscores how constructive feedback and focused choices can reshape public perception over time.