You saw a different side to Ananya Panday in films like CTRL, Kho Gaye Hum Kahan and shows like Call Me Bae. There was a different energy to her, a certain maturity, or more specifically, a gravitas which was missing earlier. She has an online image which is totally in contrast with the actor, with the person she's turning into now. Sitting besides her for an interview, I don't see her pulling any starry airs. She loves to talk and I love to listen to her. Our off the record conversation is much more interesting. Alas! I cannot share it with you. She has no qualms about admitting to her failures and listing her insecurities because she's secure in the belief that she has moved past them. She's only interested in the future, in becoming a better, more involved actor. She knows an actor is a product of her choices and she has her fingers crossed towards not only choosing the best but creating some on her own too. Excerpts from an engaging interview with the actor.

How have you processed this year?

It's been a truly life-changing year, both personally and professionally.

Everything I've worked towards over the past few years has finally come to fruition. It's also the year I feel most connected to the audience. Anchal, who does my hair, told me about her daughter's elocution competition. A child came on stage and said, "I am Bae, I'm here to slay" as their official entry. That, for me, is the biggest win as an actor. My dad always says that when people imitate you, it means you've made your mark.

You faced trolling and the usual nepotism debate. How have you managed to silence those voices?

I've handled it differently at various stages of life. When things are going well, like now, the voices don't affect me much. But on bad days, even the smallest comment can feel amplified.