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Ananya Panday

Magic that happened at the right time" - that's how Ananya Panday describes Kho Gaye Hum Kahan (2023). While Arjun Varain Singh's directorial venture is winning praise, Panday's tender performance as Ahana, whose self-worth takes a beating when her boyfriend leaves her, is being particularly talked about. The actor admits the character was close to her real self, and that made it tougher. She reflects, "Sometimes, you are open to [a script] because you are feeling similar things in life. Yet, it's tough to play out those emotions because it's hurting you. I could strongly relate to Ahana. Now that the film has released, I feel it's not just my story, but almost every girl has felt the same way. They are strong in front of their friends and families, but if a relationship doesn't work out, it can affect their self-worth. I'm happy that through this part, I could reach out to many girls."

The Netflix young adult drama tells the story of three youngsters who find an escape on social media, away from their broken lives. The easy chemistry between the leads - Panday, Siddhant Chaturvedi and Adarsh Gourav - makes the film a breezy watch. How was it working with Chaturvedi, with whom she has a history? In an interview, he had pointed out that Panday had more privileges than outsiders in the nepotistic industry. "We've worked together in Gehraiyaan [2022] too. Now, he and Adarsh will always be Imaad and Neil for me. Kho Gaye… has set a solid base for our friendship. Also, whatever came out in the media [then], people made it bigger than it was. Siddhant and I always had an honest friendship."

Over the years, Panday hasn't had an easy relationship with social media. But now, the incessant trolling doesn't bother her. "My personal relationship with social media has changed so much over time. When I started out, I used to get affected by the trolling. But I've realised that in the long run, it's better to be yourself. Even if a few people like you, they like you for who you are. You have to put yourself and your mental health above everything." As an actor who has millions of followers, she is also aware of the influence she exercises. "We have to be careful about what we post; our actions and words will be taken seriously by millions of people who follow us, and are influenced by the way we act, dress and behave. I am driven by the impact that I could possibly have on people. That's why I strongly believe in myself. With the passage of time, I feel more comfortable in being who I am and being unapologetic about it."