Catch Ananya Panday at her unfiltered best on 'In the Ring with Filmfare,' available to stream on Filmfare's YouTube Channel

One of Hindi Cinema's widely celebrated new-age actresses, Ananya Panday, who is riding high on an eventful year at the movies, recently appeared on the latest episode of In The Ring with Filmfare, now streaming on Filmfare's YouTube channel. Hosted by Jitesh Pillai, Editor-in-Chief, Filmfare, this engaging talk show offers fans an exclusive glimpse into the lives and careers of some of the most sought-after talents in the film and OTT industries, all set against the backdrop of a live audience that heightens the immersive experience.

She reacted to being featured on a 'Fuljhadi' packet and to the love she's received for her standout performances in Kho Gaye Hum Kahan and CTRL, along with the exceptional series debut in Call Me Bae. 2024 undoubtedly belonged to Ananya Panday and she knows it. As she entered the Ring, Ananya reflected on her journey, opened about prioritizing her mental health, shared insights into her upcoming projects, got candid about 'Red Flags' in a relationship, and much more.

Talking about how she deals with trolling and anxiety, she said, "When things go well, the noise around you fades, but it's on tough days, when even a whisper can echo loudly. I've learned that doubt often creeps in when you're already vulnerable, but pushing through those moments'showing up despite the fear'is where real growth happens. You can't control what people say, but you can control how you rise above it."

Recalling how working on Gehraiyaan transformed her as an actress, Ananya shared, "Gehraiyaan was a transformative journey for me. Working alongside someone like Deepika Padukone, whom I deeply admire, was an opportunity for me to learn and grow. Besides that, Shakun Batra made me realise that directors can't always hold your hand'you have to build your character, do your homework, and take ownership of your craft. That experience pushed me to step up, take ownership of my work, and believe in the power of learning from those you look up to."

Sharing her opinion on 'Red Flags' in a relationship, she highlighted, "Pay attention to how someone treats you when others are watching'that shift in behaviour speaks volumes. True support isn't selective, and if someone can't celebrate your victories or stand by you consistently, it's a clear sign they're not fully in your corner."

When asked about her dating preferences between an actor and someone outside the industry, Ananya added, 'Being with another actor has its advantages'they understand the ups and downs, the constant travel, and the pressures of the job. But sometimes, being with someone outside of the industry is a breath of fresh air. They don't know you for your fame or your work, just for who you truly are, and that can feel like a pure, fulfilling connection."

She also teased her upcoming projects, revealing, "I'm excited about the variety of roles ahead. I'm stepping into unchartered territories'like playing a lawyer in a period drama, something I've never done before. After doing so many OTT films and portraying Gen Z characters, it feels refreshing to break away from that mould. I'm also diving into a hardcore romantic film, which is a completely different experience for me. It's all about growth, challenging myself, and embracing different genres to see where they take me.'