Meet The Rising Stars Of OTT

Bazaar India turns the spotlight on actors who have taken OTT platforms by storm. Our digital coverstars Shriya Pilgaonkar, Ishwak Singh, Aisha Ahmed, Andrea Kevichisa, and Anjali Sivaraman discuss their love for acting and their individual journeys, while sporting the freshest hues on their lids.

- Meghna Sharma

SHRIYA PILGAONKAR

Actor

“I have always had a performer’s instinct. And even though I come from a family of wonderful actors, I never took it for granted. Acting, for me, was an organic step, and I credit my training as a Kathak dancer for that. Learning Kathak was the starting point for me...it helped me realise that I am most ‘present’ when I am performing—whether it is on stage or in front of the camera. So I always knew that I would be connected to this medium of storytelling in some way.

Personally, OTT has been game-changing. It has been defining for me in more ways than one...especially last year, because the characters I got to portray really resonated with the audience. Whether it is Kashaf, the lawyer from Guilty Minds [2022], or Madhubala, a sex worker from Taaza Khabar [2023], or Sweety Gupta from Mirzapur [2018], I have had the opportunity to play some truly interesting characters on screen. The most significant aspect about OTT is that it allows writers and actors to experiment. People are willing to take more risks... Also it gives so many more people an opportunity to be a part of the industry, not just in front of the camera, but also behind it. I also want to emphasise that because of OTT, the audience has come to appreciate good writing and good talent...and that encourages people to push the envelope. Also, because OTT work is compared with content produced around the world, it inspires a certain pursuit of excellence. People are looking for authentic content. I, too, as a performer, seek that authenticity in anything that I do.