Pavleen Gujral Interview
Q. From Gehraiyaan to Sukhee, your roles have had very different emotional textures- how do you personally choose characters that resonate with you?
I feel that the kind of films I’ve done have always positioned me as a director’s actor rather than someone judged on appearance. My roles have been quite layered and subdued.
In Gehraiyaan, I played a depressed patient. In Angry Indian Goddesses, I portrayed a South Delhi girl. In Bhor, I was a village teacher, and in Sukhee, I played a woman married into a royal family as part of an ensemble cast.
I believe I bring a part of myself into every character I play-sometimes I heighten it, sometimes I reduce it, depending on what the script demands. Ultimately, it’s the conviction of the director and casting team that matters. Today, people in the industry are aware of my work, so I’m offered roles that I can truly do justice to. I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with some of the finest production houses and directors who recognize that.
Q. You describe yourself as “Dil se actor, Zubaan se anchor.” How do these two sides of you complement each other on and off screen?
I’ve been fortunate to have both the gift of the gab and a strong theatre background. Theatre shaped me as an actor, while anchoring strengthened my communication skills.
When I’m on stage hosting an event, I am completely an anchor-focused, sharp, and present. When I’m acting, I immerse myself fully into the character. Because I’ve pursued both careers independently for so long, I’ve learned to bifurcate them clearly.
Interestingly, they don’t interfere- they complement each other. My clarity of speech helps my performances as an actor, and my emotional depth as an actor enriches my anchoring.
Q. Was there a moment in your journey when you truly felt- “Yes, this is where I belong”?
In the events industry, the moment I began receiving repeated prestigious clients, I knew I belonged there. I’ve been launching Lamborghini for the past three years, working with SBI for several years, and hosting major events like marathons. When clients return to you, that validation is powerful.
As for acting, within a few years, I had the opportunity to work with Dharma Productions and now with Yash Raj Films. Even if I haven’t done a large number of films, the ones I’ve done have been impactful. When audiences remember your role and your film- that’s when you know this industry is your true calling.
Q. Acting often requires vulnerability. How do you protect your personal self while emotionally investing in a character?
Interestingly, I don’t feel the need to protect myself- I feel the need to protect the character.
The characters I’ve portrayed are extensions of me, but their situations are far removed from my real life. On set, I live as the character-even when the camera isn’t rolling. That immersion helps me maintain emotional continuity.
The character ends when I step into my vanity. I consciously separate the two worlds. It’s less about safeguarding myself and more about preserving the integrity of the character.
Q. As an anchor who connects instantly with people, what’s the one communication skill every actor should master?
In today’s world, communication skills are essential in every industry. First impressions matter. One must come across as confident, articulate, and comfortable speaking to people from all walks of life.
However, acting and anchoring require different approaches. Anchoring demands sharp presence of mind-especially during live events where anything can go wrong. You must fix problems seamlessly without showing panic.
Acting, on the other hand, is deeply emotional. It requires introspection and vulnerability. Both are forms of entertainment, but the processes are entirely different.
Q. What does a normal day in Pavleen Gujral’s life look like when you’re not shooting or hosting?
Honestly, I’m a complete homebody. My professional life is very high-energy, so when I’m not working, I like to slow down. I enjoy organizing my space, spending time at home, and calling friends or family over rather than going out.
My personal life is very calm and simple- a complete contrast to my professional world. I expend all my energy on stage and on set. Off-camera, I prefer to protect my energy and stay grounded.
Q. The industry is evolving rapidly with OTT and digital platforms. How has this shift changed opportunities for actors?
OTT and digital platforms have expanded opportunities tremendously. I’m grateful to be an actor in this generation because there is work for everyone.
However, there’s a flip side. Sometimes, social media presence is prioritized over craft. Actors are asked about Instagram followers instead of acting skills, which I find unfair. Some talented actors without a strong social media presence may not get their due.
That said, the positives outweigh the negatives. Opportunities are immense. Earlier, actors relied heavily on casting directors. Today, you can even create your own content -like Bhuvan Bam launching his own series. India is growing rapidly, and digital media is contributing significantly. Overall, it’s an exciting time to be part of the industry.
Q. What advice would you give to aspiring actors who feel talented but struggle with visibility and patience?
Patience is key. Acting isn’t just about talent- it’s also about networking. You are your own product, and you must know how to present yourself to producers, directors, editors, and casting professionals.
Films and web series are collaborative efforts. Staying connected within the industry is crucial- out of sight can mean out of mind.
Strengthen your networking skills as much as your acting skills. Also, today’s industry values relatability. There’s no fixed look required anymore- authenticity and talent matter most.
At the end of the day, your craft and your ability to connect with people will take you forward.
Bio:
From Gehraiyaan to Sukhee, Pavleen Gujral has carved a space for herself as both a nuanced actor and a commanding anchor. In this conversation with Eat My News, she opens up about choosing meaningful roles, balancing two careers, and staying authentic in an ever-evolving industry.
Interviewed by: Gunjan Joshi
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