Kunika Chaudhary - I Have Seen Professional Growth Over the Years, and Now I Almost Crave Challenges (Creative Film Director From India)

I believe an actor should have a knack for constantly upping their game in all circumstances. I am lucky to have worked with some really good actors, who set an example for others, in terms of giving their 100% in their performance, whatever be the level of the project.

1. Tell us about your background and journey.

I have been a middle-class movie-lover Delhiite who always wanted to make something more of my hobby. I had made up my mind early on to pursue a professional career in the entertainment industry, not because the fame was attractive. It was just something I felt comfortable around. 

My obvious challenge was to convince my family to let me pursue my unconventional career path. My father had always put tremendous stress on a good education. Hence my first step was to do a bachelor's degree in Mass Media and Communication from IP College, University of Delhi, and then move to Mumbai immediately to gain professional experience.

I have experienced my share of struggles, just like many of my colleagues. However, these experiences played a crucial role in shaping my career. I have seen myself transform from an underconfident, naïve girl to a strong, independent professional lady who calls significant shots at numerous TV shows. 

My 14-year experience consists of major stints with the likes of Patiala Babes, Dehleez, Shaitaan, Gali Gali Sim Sim, etc. This journey has endured many ups and downs, with discrimination, power struggles, resource constraints, and burnout sessions. However, I have never allowed them to deter me, just like any other aspirational professional woman. Having come a long way, now I aspire to continue to be a part of major creative projects, and contribute to socially conscious content. And my passion will always drive me.

2. Which factors do you consider to determine an actor's suitability?

A good actor has a great attitude, in my opinion. They take feedback constructively, understand the scene's requirements, or have a general sense of how the scene should go. They should know their strengths and weaknesses and therefore be quick to adapt to the situation. Hence a great attitude should be there, alongside, dedication, great character, and talent.

While everyone looks for talent, I believe an actor should have a knack for constantly upping their game in all circumstances. I am lucky to have worked with some really good actors, who set an example for others, in terms of giving their 100% in their performance, whatever be the level of the project.

3. Can you tell me about your approach towards the set creativity?

Set creativity requires a great deal of visualization. I must be able to run the scenes in my head and communicate abstract ideas to my crew. Indeed, nothing today is a one-person show. Creativity needs consensus to manifest itself. Hence, I need to visualize the scene well and then effectively communicate it to my team properly.

Also, I cannot be very rigid about my ideas. No matter how well you plan a scene, anyone is bound to make mistakes. I guess the key is to remain open to ideas, take criticism positively and quickly adopt changes. Hence, patience becomes very important. Whatever be the stage of the project, we have to follow a trial-and-error approach. The approach requires a lot of patience; exchanging ideas, implementing them, and having retakes. It gets tough sometimes, but I believe that is how you can let your creativity materialize on the set.

4. What is your biggest pet peeve?

Our industry is based on teamwork. A creative often dreams of an efficient team. Therefore what annoys me is the lack of coordination within my team. There should be a willingness to keep the team first.

Also, I'm not too fond of politics or a general lack of cohesion. It takes immense energy to create a safe and supportive environment at the set. It should be a place where the newcomers can learn, and the experienced are respected.

5. What has been the biggest learning from your job?

My job has never been easy, but that is how the entertainment industry is, ruthless but rewarding. Though I have seen immense struggle at the beginning of my career, so have my contemporaries. We all have faced searing competition and a general lack of opportunities. But amidst all that, we still should have this attitude of giving back. It is dangerous that people think in the short term. 

They should always think, not in terms of what they can take, but the value they can offer. Truly successful people have this giving attitude, especially in times of peril. They give long-term outcomes a priority and thus they are rewarded well with trust, respect, and better opportunities.

6. What is the best thing about your role?

What I love about my job is that it allows me to make decisions. I have seen professional growth over the years, and now I almost crave challenges. Making decisions in tough situations put my skills to the test.

Also, the relationships you make at work, the memories you make are priceless. I am fortunate to have worked with some wonderful people. I owe my success to the guidance from my mentors and trust from my subordinates. And I consider these relationships to be the best.

7. Which is your favorite book and why?

I enjoy all genres of books but I prefer fiction content. A thousand Splendid Suns by Khalid Hosseini is my favorite because it depicts the struggles of two women fighting against all odds. It makes it incredibly moving, inspirational and I appreciate its great story-telling.

Kunika Chaudhary - Creative Director

Interviewed By: Nishad Kinhikar