Naila Grrewal’s acting career that started with a Tamasha, takes positive turn after her stint as the lead actor in Netflix series Maamla Legal Hai

Gurnaz Kaur

She was performing in a play at her college, unaware that the casting team of Imtiaz Ali’s upcoming film was in the audience, quietly scouting for talent. That’s when Naila Grrewal got the offer for her debut film Tamasha in which she played fan girl and clown while Ranbir played the robot during a performance in the movie. Cut to now, the young actress has made it as the lead of Netflix series Maamla Legal Hai.

Naila says Maamla Legal Hai is a tale that beckoned her amidst the hustle of another commitment. “The story’s irresistible charm drew me in,” she confesses. From the whirlwind audition process to stepping into the delightful madness of Ananya Shroff’s world, Naila shares the excitement and experimentation that fuelled her journey into this new venture. “I was knee-deep in another project when the script for Maamla Legal Hai came to me. One look at it and I knew I had to seize the opportunity. Both Rahul sir, the director, and Saurabh sir, the writer, had a clear vision for Ananya Shroff’s character. The clarity and dedication to their vision instilled confidence in me.”

Her character in the series, Naila says, is a paradox personified. “She’s sharp and enigmatic, yet feels out of place in the unfamiliar setting of the Patparganj District Court. Despite being a swanky third-generation lawyer with an LLM from Harvard, she’s returned to India with a desire to provide legal aid to the underprivileged. Ananya’s lifestyle, like her choice of alkaline water and almond milk for lunch, contrasts with her surroundings, making her feel like a fish out of water. What truly sets her apart is her seamless transition between intellect, instinct, and boundless curiosity. She’s genuine in her intentions, never looking down on those less fortunate, while navigating her place in the chaos of the Patparganj District Court. And yes, she also rocks a killer wardrobe, because who says lawyers can’t slay in stilettos?”

There were many take-homes that this project offered. From working with seasoned actor Ravi Kishan, which she calls an invaluable learning experience, to a crew that paid attention to detail in every dialogue, turn and reaction, enhancing the overall experience. “His unwavering dedication, his infectious enthusiasm and of course, his quirky one-liners that had everyone in splits, every moment with Ravi sir on the sets of Maamla Legal Hai was a masterclass in itself. Then, the cast’s ability to effortlessly turn even the smallest gesture into comedic gold was truly remarkable. Each day on the set was a perfect blend of laughter and genuine connections, making it an incredibly enjoyable experience. It’s truly fulfilling to collaborate with a

team so deeply invested in their craft.”

As we shift gears, Naila is too happy to talk about her upcoming film, Ishq Vishk Rebound, where she plays the parallel lead. “It’s bound to bring a wave of nostalgia and excitement for the audiences,” she shares. Revisiting the characters and storylines, Naila emphasises the promise of new twists and turns. And collaborating with co-actors Rohit Saraf, Pashmina Roshan, and Jibraan Khan, she says, “Proved to be a rollercoaster ride of nostalgia and newfound adventures. Each co-actor brought their own unique flair to the table, infusing the set with energy and camaraderie that was simply infectious.”

Reflecting on her journey, Naila explains she was always gravitated towards dance and theatre since her schooldays, but the decision to pursue acting as a full-fledged career is thanks to Tamasha. “My experience in Tamasha really served as the catalyst, igniting a passion for performing in front of the camera like never before. The magic of being on set, surrounded by the hustle-bustle, the electric energy of fellow creatives, and the intoxicating thrill of embodying a character in front of a magnificent moving camera became an irresistible pull for me. From that moment on, there was no looking back.”

Navigating the uncertainties of the film industry, Naila says being an actor is like walking a tightrope. “It’s a journey filled with challenges, where rejection and self-doubt often lurk in the shadows. As an outsider, the path can be especially daunting, requiring perseverance, resilience and an unwavering belief in oneself. Yet, amidst all the uncertainties, there’s complete thrill in the pursuit of artistic expression, a joy in bringing characters to life, and a sense of fulfilment in touching the hearts and minds of audiences. While the road may be tough, the rewards of performing and the pursuit of one’s passion make every obstacle worthwhile.”