Sapna Thakur does not have any formal training in acting, but does not regret it

Actor Sapna Thakur started her career as a model and later acted in Punjabi films and music videos. She moved to Mumbai in 2010 and became a part of many television shows. Up close and personal with this charming girl...

• Do you have any formal training in acting?

I did start my career with music videos and then modelling but honestly, I never took any classes or training for this. I guess I am just a born actor.

• You have acted in Punjabi films like Rahe Chardi Kala, Veera Naal Sardari, Din Dahade Lai Jaange and shows like Ishq Subhan Allah, Piya Rangrez, Yeh Hai Mohabbatein, Dilli Wali Thakur Girls, and more. How has been the experience of working in films and television shows?

I love to work for the television industry more than the film industry because this is what I wanted to do when I decided to be an actor. These days television is the key source of entertainment. Movies are fun too, but I love watching TV. I watch almost every show.

• Currently, you are playing the role of Samaira, a negative lead, in Zee TV’s show Kyun Rishton Mein Katti Batti. What makes your character special?

What I like about this role is that it has all the shades. It is a negative character, but it still has positive shades. It is a challenging role and I think that is why I love playing Samaira.

• What kind of script fascinates you?

Whenever I take up a role, I make sure that the character I am choosing is very strong and I get to be all filmy and dramatic on screen.

• One thing about Punjabis that you like the most?

I am a Punjabi by heart, of course. I belong to Himachal, but I was brought up in Chandigarh. I love Punjabis because they are friendly and really welcoming.

• What is next on your wish list?

I would really love to explore the OTT platform.

• With a number of actors down with Covid-19, how do you think it would impact the industry that was barely finding its feet post-pandemic?

I agree that a lot of actors are down with Covid and the industry is suffering a lot. Half of the crew members are confined to their homes because of the restrictions, as only a few people are allowed on the sets. We are trying to take all the precautions and follow all the guidelines. We are also getting ourselves tested for the virus every few days and trying our best to maintain social distancing with our team members.

• Do you think the industry can survive another lockdown?

I hope we don’t see another prolonged lockdown. It breaks you mentally, physically, and also financially.

• Are you happy with the way your career has shaped up?

I am quite happy with the way my career has shaped up. I have worked hard for this and I believe that there are better things to come my way. The process is slow, but I am really happy with what I have achieved till now.

• How do you define yourself?

A simple girl with strong opinions.

• Do you enjoy cooking? What are your favourite Punjabi dishes?

I do not enjoy cooking. But I like Punjabi food. My all-time favourite Punjabi dish is sarson da saag and makki ki roti with lassi, especially the ones that my naani makes whenever I visit her in Chandigarh.

— Dharam Pal