Anuj Sachdeva: Art can't thrive in a VIP culture
Despite venturing into films and OTT platforms early in his career, Anuj Sachdeva's journey beyond television has been far from easy. The actor, recently seen in Chhal Kapat – The Deception, shares, 'I've always maintained that I'm trying to push my luck and put my best foot forward.
The challenges are ongoing, and I don't think that will ever change. But I'm not desperate. I'm willing to wait for the right opportunities.'
He believes that landing good roles has become even more difficult, primarily due to the recycling of familiar faces and the dominance of star power. Having been part of projects like Delhi Heights, Hawaa Hawaai, and Breathe, Anuj says, 'OTT has formed its own lobby. You often see the same set of actors being cast repeatedly, which makes it harder for others to get a chance.
I still hope the focus shifts back to the characters, not just the actors.
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He continues, 'Give me the opportunity and I'll deliver. I know my capabilities, and if something doesn't suit me, I'll be honest about it. I'm open to attending workshops and putting in the effort. Honing one's craft and carving out a place doesn't happen overnight.'
What initially promised to be a character-driven medium, OTT today seems increasingly influenced by follower counts and star value.
Reflecting on the shift, Anuj says, 'Earlier, casting was about finding someone who fit the character. Now, if you don't have a certain number of followers, you might not even be considered. And people forget—not all followers are real. I've also been asked about my social media numbers, but I've chosen to grow my presence organically rather than take shortcuts.
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He adds, 'It's like a newly built temple; open to everyone at first, but once it becomes popular, queues and hierarchies emerge.
But art can't thrive in a VIP culture. The focus should be on the story and the project. A good filmmaker will cast someone who fits the role, not just a name to prop up a weak script.'
While Anuj continues to pursue meaningful roles professionally, he finds contentment in his personal life. Asked about his relationship status and whether he misses companionship, he says, 'I'm single. Of course, there's pressure to settle down and start a family at a certain age, but I'm not in that space right now. I find joy in caring for the dogs and cats in my compound. The love and affection I get from them is more than enough for me.
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Time of India
3 hours ago
- Time of India
Anuj Sachdeva: Art can't thrive in a VIP culture
Anuj Sachdeva Despite venturing into films and OTT platforms early in his career, Anuj Sachdeva's journey beyond television has been far from easy. The actor, recently seen in Chhal Kapat – The Deception, shares, 'I've always maintained that I'm trying to push my luck and put my best foot forward. The challenges are ongoing, and I don't think that will ever change. But I'm not desperate. I'm willing to wait for the right opportunities.' He believes that landing good roles has become even more difficult, primarily due to the recycling of familiar faces and the dominance of star power. Having been part of projects like Delhi Heights, Hawaa Hawaai, and Breathe, Anuj says, 'OTT has formed its own lobby. You often see the same set of actors being cast repeatedly, which makes it harder for others to get a chance. I still hope the focus shifts back to the characters, not just the actors. ' He continues, 'Give me the opportunity and I'll deliver. I know my capabilities, and if something doesn't suit me, I'll be honest about it. I'm open to attending workshops and putting in the effort. Honing one's craft and carving out a place doesn't happen overnight.' What initially promised to be a character-driven medium, OTT today seems increasingly influenced by follower counts and star value. Reflecting on the shift, Anuj says, 'Earlier, casting was about finding someone who fit the character. Now, if you don't have a certain number of followers, you might not even be considered. And people forget—not all followers are real. I've also been asked about my social media numbers, but I've chosen to grow my presence organically rather than take shortcuts. ' He adds, 'It's like a newly built temple; open to everyone at first, but once it becomes popular, queues and hierarchies emerge. But art can't thrive in a VIP culture. The focus should be on the story and the project. A good filmmaker will cast someone who fits the role, not just a name to prop up a weak script.' While Anuj continues to pursue meaningful roles professionally, he finds contentment in his personal life. Asked about his relationship status and whether he misses companionship, he says, 'I'm single. Of course, there's pressure to settle down and start a family at a certain age, but I'm not in that space right now. I find joy in caring for the dogs and cats in my compound. The love and affection I get from them is more than enough for me. '
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