By Aanya Rajput, Tab2 Mag:
Letter from Aanya
Dear Tab2 Mag readers,
You know how every once in a while, someone comes along who lights up the screen and makes you believe in the magic of cinema again? That’s exactly how I felt watching Aneet Padda in Saiyaara. Her performance is raw, real, and deeply human. Naturally, I had to sit down with her and ask everything you’ve been DM-ing us about—her journey, her struggles, her family, and, of course, what’s next. Trust me, she’s every bit as wonderful off-screen as she is on it.
The Conversation
Aanya: Welcome, Aneet! Tab2 Mag has been buzzing about this chat all week.
Aneet: Thank you for having me, Aanya! I’m excited—and a little nervous.
Aanya: No need to be nervous—this is more like two friends chatting with coffee. So, tell us, growing up in Chandigarh, was acting even on your radar?
Aneet: Not at all. My parents are both in education, so our home was about books and academics. I was shy, loved writing, and thought I’d become a teacher or a writer someday. But I’ve always been drawn to stories.
Aanya: And college changed everything?
Aneet: Absolutely. I went to Punjab University for English Literature, joined a theatre club just to overcome my shyness, and that was it. I fell in love with acting. My first role had only one line, but the adrenaline was addictive. Soon, I was rehearsing more than studying—sorry, mom and dad!
Aanya: (laughs) They forgave you eventually, right?
Aneet: Oh yes. They said, “If this makes you happy, go for it—but work hard.”
Aanya: Fast forward to Mumbai. Those early years must’ve been tough.
Aneet: They were. I didn’t know anyone. I auditioned for ads, theatre shows, student films, even took a job as an assistant director. There were days I cried in my tiny rented flat, thinking, maybe I should go home. But something inside me said, keep going.
Aanya: And then came Saiyaara—the game-changer.
Aneet: Exactly. The script moved me instantly. The audition was intense—no dialogue, just raw emotion. When they called to say, “You’re our lead,” I just sat on my bed and cried. Called my mom right after.
Aanya: And now it’s everywhere. People are saying your performance helped them heal from real heartbreaks. Did you expect that kind of impact?
Aneet: Honestly, no. I hoped people would like it, but hearing that it helped someone reconnect with a loved one—that’s priceless.
Aanya: Any behind-the-scenes fun?
Aneet: Oh yes—the rain machine breaking during the big emotional climax. There I was, sobbing in character, and suddenly… drizzle. We all laughed so hard. Those are the moments I’ll never forget.
Aanya: And how has fame changed things?
Aneet: Life’s busier. People recognize me now, which is sweet but still surreal. My parents keep me grounded, and my college friends? They keep sending me memes of my crying scenes. (laughs)
Aanya: (laughs) Classic friends. So, who’s been your biggest support?
Aneet: My parents and my best friend Mehak. She’s brutally honest and keeps me sane. And my theatre mentor—he first told me I had “something different.”
Aanya: Speaking of “different,” what’s next?
Aneet: I’ve signed a romantic drama and an untitled digital series that’s darker and edgier than Saiyaara. Both are so exciting and different from what I’ve done so far.
Aanya: Dream roles?
Aneet: A historical queen or a spy thriller heroine. I also want to do an action film someday—do my own stunts!
Aanya: Manifesting that for you right now. Quickfire time—favorite movie?
Aneet: Barfi!
Aanya: Guilty pleasure?
Aneet: Street-style pani puri—don’t judge me.
Aanya: If not acting?
Aneet: Teaching or writing.
Aanya: And biggest “pinch me” moment so far?
Aneet: A fan gave me a handmade scrapbook of my film posters and wrote, “Thank you for telling my story.” I cried again—seems I do a lot of that!
Aanya: That’s so sweet. Final message for fans?
Aneet: Thank you. Your love and belief keep me going. I promise to keep working hard and bringing you stories worth remembering.
Aanya: We’ll hold you to that. Aneet, you’ve been amazing—thank you for opening up.
(Closing Note)
Tab2 Mag readers,
When I walked into this interview, I expected to meet an actress riding high on her first big hit. Instead, I found someone humble, reflective, and deeply grateful. Aneet Padda is more than a breakout star—she’s proof that dreams backed by hard work (and a touch of courage) can change lives. I left inspired, and I hope you feel the same after reading.
Until next time, keep dreaming big and keep those tissues handy—you’ll need them when you watch Saiyaara.
— Aanya Rajput, Tab2 Mag
