Jigyasa Singh on choosing offbeat roles: I crave variety, not fame
From portraying a girl who stutters in Thapki Pyar Ki, to playing a transgender woman in Shakti – Astitva Ke Ehsaas Ki, and a detective in Dev 2, Jigyasa Singh has consistently gravitated towards unconventional roles.
In an industry where typecasting is common, Jigyasa sees her trajectory as an advantage rather than a limitation.
She says, 'I've never felt boxed in. In fact, I consider myself lucky. Many actors would love to play such diverse characters. These roles have defined my journey. Taking the road less travelled early in my career set the tone for the path ahead. Every show brought a new challenge and taught me something different — what more could an artiste ask for?'
Reflecting on her decade-long journey in the industry, she adds, 'Completing 10 years feels like a personal and professional victory.
I know actors who enjoy the rhythm of playing one character for a long time, but I'm not wired that way. I need variety. I can't take up a role just for the platform, the money, or to please someone. The character must resonate with me. Of course, there are moments of vulnerability and self-doubt, but I've realised that patience is key in this industry.
'
Jigyasa has consciously stepped away from television for now and is focused on exploring opportunities in the web and film space.
'That doesn't mean I've shut the door on television,' she clarifies, adding, 'I'll always be proud to be a TV baby. But currently, I'm drawn to the real and raw characters the web offers. I have a hunger for depth in roles, not for fame or money. TV has given me a solid foundation — I'll always be prepared with a script in hand.
'
But she acknowledges the challenges that come with waiting for the right part. She says, 'Unconventional roles aren't written often, so yes, there are long gaps.
It's tough when others are working every day and you're waiting for a project that speaks to you. I'm fortunate that I'm financially stable and can afford to wait — not everyone has that luxury. That's why I always advise actors to be smart with their money. Save.
Don't overspend to maintain a certain lifestyle, because savings give you the freedom to wait.'
Her transition to the OTT space hasn't been easy. 'It took nearly two and a half years for casting directors to even consider me for web projects.
I had to start from scratch — I was a nobody in the OTT and film circuit. I never approached it with the baggage of my TV work. I went out there like a newcomer, meeting the right people, figuring out who was doing what. And honestly, I can say TV actors are some of the sharpest, most versatile performers.
We're quick on our feet and have a strong presence of mind.'
Interestingly, even during her time away from television, she continued auditioning for TV shows.
'I auditioned for several, but things didn't align — sometimes it was the budget, sometimes the platform didn't feel right. But I've always been open to the medium. If the story connects, I'll do it — whether it's film, web, or TV.'
Jigyasa also faced personal challenges during this transitional phase. 'There was a time when people assumed I wasn't getting work just because I wasn't on-screen. Some said, 'Oh, she left her show, and now she's jobless'. But that wasn't the case. I received offers, but I didn't want to compromise. I want my profile to move forward, not stagnate or go backward.'
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