Swati Anand - Coming From a Small Town is Not a Limitation (Indian TV Actress)

"The simplicity of life in Ujjain and the people I grew up with often find their way into my performances. My roots are a treasure trove of memories and emotions that bring authenticity to my roles."

Q. Let’s start with your roots. You hail from Ujjain, a city steeped in history and spirituality. How did growing up there shape you as a person and an artist?

Ujjain is a beautiful city with so much cultural and spiritual significance. Growing up there, I was surrounded by traditions, art, and a sense of community. The city’s calm yet vibrant atmosphere taught me patience and creativity. Being close to the Mahakaleshwar Temple and experiencing the Kumbh Mela also instilled in me a deep sense of connection to my roots. These elements have definitely influenced my approach to life and my craft as an actor.


Q. Your career spans decades and iconic roles across beloved TV shows. What drew you to acting?

Acting was almost serendipitous for me. Growing up, I was always surrounded by stories—be it through books, music, or my family’s love for drama. My first tryst with acting happened in school plays, and from there, the passion only grew. I think the magic of transforming into someone else on screen and connecting with audiences at an emotional level is what hooked me from the very start.


Q. Your versatility is evident from your roles—from Chitralekha in Shri Krishna to Manjusha in Pavitra Rishta. How do you prepare for such varied characters?

Each character demands something different, and that’s what excites me as an actor. For a historical figure like Chitralekha in Shri Krishna, it was important to dive into mythology and understand the subtleties of her demeanor. On the other hand, playing a complex character like Manjusha in Pavitra Rishta required tapping into human emotions and motivations. I read scripts multiple times, discuss with directors, and sometimes draw from real-life observations. It’s a collaborative and immersive process.


Q. Speaking of Pavitra Rishta, Manjusha was such a layered character. What was it like portraying someone audiences loved to hate?

It was a rollercoaster! Manjusha was manipulative and cunning, but also deeply flawed and human. The challenge was to portray her in a way that wasn’t one-dimensional. I always try to find the "why" behind a character’s actions, and that helped me bring authenticity to her. The audience’s reactions—be it love or hate—are a testament to how deeply they connect with the story, which is incredibly fulfilling.


Q. From mythological dramas like Shri Krishna to supernatural thrillers like Naagin 2, you’ve done it all. Do you have a personal favorite genre?

Every genre has its charm! Mythological shows challenge you with their grandeur and discipline, while supernatural thrillers like Naagin 2 are sheer fun with their imaginative storylines. However, I think family dramas like Pavitra Rishta and Kumkum Bhagya hold a special place in my heart because they reflect the nuances of relationships and human emotions so beautifully.


Q. You’ve worked with some of the most renowned names in the television industry. Any memorable anecdotes you’d like to share?

Oh, there are so many! One that stands out is during Shri Krishna. We were shooting an intense scene, and the set was so quiet you could hear a pin drop. Suddenly, someone’s phone rang with a Bollywood item song ringtone! It broke the tension, and everyone, including our director, burst into laughter. It’s moments like these that remind you that while we create magic on screen, behind the scenes, we’re just a group of people having fun.


Q. In an era of streaming platforms, what’s your take on the evolution of Indian television?

Television has its own charm and continues to reach millions of households daily. Streaming platforms have opened up a world of opportunities for actors and creators, offering diverse stories and unconventional characters. It’s not about one replacing the other but rather coexisting and complementing each other. I’m excited to see how this evolution shapes storytelling in the years to come.


Q. What keeps you passionate about acting after all these years?

For me, acting is not just a profession; it’s a way of life. Every role, every set, every scene teaches you something new. It’s the love of storytelling and the joy of connecting with audiences that keeps me going. And, of course, the thrill of bringing a character to life never gets old!


Q. Lastly, what advice would you give to aspiring actors?

Stay true to your craft. It’s a tough industry, but if you’re passionate and willing to work hard, you’ll find your place. Be patient, keep learning, and embrace every opportunity with an open heart. And most importantly, never lose your authenticity—both as an actor and as a person.


BIO : 

Swati Anand (born August 26, 1962) is a seasoned Indian television actress celebrated for her versatile performances in iconic shows. Hailing from Ujjain, she began her acting journey with mythological dramas like 'Shri Krishna' and gained fame through roles in 'Pavitra Rishta', 'Kumkum Bhagya', and 'Naagin 2'. Known for her ability to bring depth to her characters, Swati remains a beloved figure in Indian television.