Suranjana Ray – Acting Requires My Physical Presence on Set Almost Daily (Actor)

"Financial independence isn’t just important—it’s non-negotiable. Whether it’s one career or three, every woman should have the power to stand strong on her own."

1. How did your early creativity shape your journey as an actor?

As a child, I was always drawn to performance—whether it was dancing, stage plays, or outdoor games. My first realization that I truly loved acting came in sixth grade when I auditioned for a school play. I initially wanted the role of the Queen but was cast as a French cook. Disappointed at first, I later realized the entire story revolved around our characters. The thrill of stepping onto the stage, the lights dimming, and the spotlight hitting me as I delivered my lines was unforgettable.

Despite coming from a family with no connections in the entertainment industry—my mother being a teacher and my father in business—acting remained a deep-seated passion. College played a transformative role; I was actively involved in various events and even founded a drama club, which led to directing my first play. We performed at multiple venues, including the Vodafone Odeon Theatre Festival, where we ranked sixth nationwide.

However, after graduation, I took a corporate job and prepared for CAT, planning to pursue an MBA. Within five months, I felt claustrophobic, realizing that a conventional career wasn't for me. With my parents support, I decided to explore acting. With no industry contacts, I relied on Google to find audition opportunities. One such audition didn’t work out, but a chance encounter outside a metro station led me to my first TV role. That marked the beginning of my journey—proof that creativity and persistence can shape a career even without traditional pathways.

2. What about Emma Watson’s Hermione inspired you the most?

There wasn’t one specific thing—it was more about growing up alongside the Harry Potter cast. Seeing someone my age excel in acting made it feel real and achievable. As a young girl, I naturally resonated with Hermione. She was smart, strong, and determined, and Emma Watson embodied those traits so effortlessly. It wasn’t just admiration; it was a subconscious realization that if she could do it, maybe I could too. That connection and inspiration stayed with me as I pursued acting.

3. How did Rajjotok change your career?

Rajjotok was a turning point. It was my training ground, where I learned how to face the camera, deliver dialogues efficiently, and adapt to the fast-paced nature of television. Unlike films, where you get time to prepare, TV requires quick transitions—you might be shooting 10–12 scenes a day with minimal prep time.

Through Rajjotok, I mastered the art of instantly immersing myself in a scene. It also brought me industry recognition and my first award. That validation was a huge morale boost, reinforcing that my hard work was paying off. The show laid the foundation for everything that followed in my career.

4. What led you to start EDU Infinitum Academy?

During the 2020 lockdown, I was searching for meaningful work and came across an opportunity to teach English to children in Australia. That experience sparked an idea—why not create my own platform?

I had always wanted to run a business, initially considering event management. But education felt like the right fit, given my background. I did my research, started onboarding teachers, and personally handled everything from social media to recruitment in the early days. Over time, we grew, and now I have teams managing different aspects. EDU Infinitum Academy was born out of both necessity and passion—a desire to build something impactful.

5. Do teaching and acting share any similarities?

Absolutely. No matter the profession, the key constant is learning. Whether you’re an actor, entrepreneur, or teacher, every day brings new lessons. Teaching refines communication, patience, and adaptability—skills that are invaluable in acting. While I don’t teach anymore due to increased workload, I’m still deeply involved in managing the academy, and the learning never stops.

6. How do you balance acting and running your academy?

Acting requires my physical presence on set almost daily, while the academy is fully online. Initially, I managed everything, but as we grew, I built a strong team—admin, social media, and operations—who handle daily tasks.

Even with a packed acting schedule, I stay updated. We have WhatsApp groups for every class, and I check in regularly. If something urgent arises, I coordinate between shoots or while commuting. At the end of the week, I sit with my team for a detailed update.

Honestly, I love being busy. It keeps me engaged, focused, and always striving for more.

7. What advice would you give to young women pursuing multiple careers?

The first thing I would say—regardless of gender—is that having multiple sources of income is essential in today’s world. Relying on just one income stream can be risky, both for yourself and your loved ones. Speaking from personal experience, financial stability often comes from diversification.

I recently came across a post on Instagram that illustrated this idea perfectly. It showed two tables—one standing on a single leg and the other supported by four legs. The message was clear: if the single-legged table breaks, it collapses entirely. But if one leg of the four-legged table breaks, the other three still provide support until it can be fixed. That’s exactly how income sources work. If one career faces a setback, having others can keep you steady.

For women, in particular, financial independence is non-negotiable. No matter what field you’re in, having your own income gives you the power to make choices and take care of yourself. Even if it’s a small job, every form of work holds value.

So to all the women pursuing multiple careers—go for it! Be driven, be ambitious, and don’t let anyone hold you back. Whether it’s two careers, three, or more, do whatever makes you feel empowered. Shine bright, take charge, and own your journey.

8. If you could play any historical figure in a biopic, who would it be?

It’s hard to pick just one, but there are two historical figures I would love to portray.

The first is Princess Diana. I may not physically resemble her, but if given the chance in a hypothetical world, I would love to step into her shoes. She was a woman of immense courage, kindness, and selfless love—not just for the people around her, but for society as a whole. Her grace, resilience, and deep compassion continue to inspire generations.

The second would be Rani Lakshmi Bai. Her courage was of a different kind—one that manifested on the battlefield. Fighting a war while carrying her child on her back is the ultimate symbol of bravery. She wasn’t just a warrior; she was a protector, a mother, and a leader who gave everything—her love, her strength, even her life—for her people. That, to me, is the definition of true power and valour.

Both these women, though from vastly different worlds, embodied strength in their own ways. And if I ever had the opportunity to portray them, it would be an absolute honor.

Bio:

Suranjana Ray is an actor known for her versatility and dedication to her craft. Beyond acting, she is a strong advocate for financial independence and believes in the power of pursuing multiple careers. With a passion for storytelling and a drive to excel in various fields, she continues to inspire aspiring professionals with her work and outlook on life.

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Interview by: Shantanu Singh 

Edited by: Shantanu Singh