6th August 2023, Mumbai: Small-town Beginnings and College Preparation
Actor Paanie Kashyap, hailing from a small town, attributes her debut film’s success to her college days’ preparation. She underscores the value of creating opportunities and gaining expertise across various domains to thrive in the industry. Kashyap also delves into her experience working behind the camera and her film-focused approach, veering away from television. Her debut film, “Pyaar Hai Toh Hai,” directed by Pradeep RK Chaudhary, has recently been shot.
Determination and Learning for Outsiders
Kashyap, aged 28, emphasizes the necessity of rigorous preparation for outsiders like herself, who lack guidance. She acknowledges that success doesn’t come easily for those from small towns. For Kashyap, diversifying her skills through involvement in different fields was the only way to grasp and endure the industry’s demands.
Cultural Influence and Multifaceted Background
Growing up in Mizapur (UP) and studying in Bokaro (Jharkhand), Kashyap cherishes the linguistic diversity and adaptability she gained. Her exposure to UP, Bihar, and Jharkhand enriched her Hindi proficiency and versatility. She recounts her journey starting as a prime-time news reader in Surat during college, eventually venturing into modeling and migrating to Mumbai for work. Her theatrical stints, including notable plays like Mohan Rakesh’s “Aashadh Ka Ek Din,” marked the beginning of her artistic journey.
Exploring Filmmaking Behind the Scenes
Apart from acting, Kashyap’s fascination with filmmaking led her to explore various behind-the-camera roles. Her involvement in Hindi and Sanskrit projects, as well as acting in the acclaimed short film “Dwand” (2020), expanded her skills. Additionally, she participated as a casting associate for the film “Gun Pe Done” (2019) and featured in Vikram Montrase’s song “Sajna” (2022), showcasing her multifaceted talents.
Choosing Films Over Television
With an unwavering focus on films, Kashyap consciously steered clear of television opportunities. She clarifies that while offers came her way, her commitment to mastering her craft and managing her finances drove her decision. Prior to the pandemic, she even managed a business alongside her artistic pursuits. Kashyap’s determination to achieve excellence aligned perfectly with her choice to prioritize cinematic endeavors.
A Promising Debut and Ongoing Pursuits
Kashyap’s dedication to film reaped rewards as she secured her debut role in “Pyaar Hai Toh Hai.” The film, helmed by Pradeep RK Chaudhary, offered her a substantial platform. Notably, Chaudhary had previously assisted the esteemed Sanjay Leela Bhansali. Paired opposite Karan Hariharan, Kashyap’s love story was captured against the backdrop of Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun. Despite this achievement, Kashyap remains vigilant for more opportunities, as she has yet to sign any new projects.
Actor Paanie Kashyap’s journey from a small town to the film industry is a testament to the significance of preparation, dedication, and versatility. Her commitment to honing her skills across domains, as well as her deliberate focus on films over television, has paved the way for her promising debut. Kashyap’s narrative underscores the importance of self-made opportunities and continuous learning in the dynamic landscape of the entertainment world.
-by Kashvi Gala