Shanaya Kapoor on social media judgement: Put your head down, keep doing the work

Shanaya Kapoor said she doesn't see her Bollywood journey as a struggle for survival, choosing instead to focus on improving her craft and enjoying the process.

As conversations around insiders, privilege, and social media scrutiny continue to dominate Bollywood discourse, Shanaya Kapoor said she doesn’t see her journey as a battle for survival. In a chat with India Today, the actor spoke about navigating judgment, focusing on craft, and why she believes destiny plays a role in the film industry.

At a time when many star kids are often asked about “surviving” the industry, Shanaya said she doesn’t relate to that narrative. Instead, she views this phase as an exciting moment for cinema and for herself as a newcomer. Speaking to India Today exclusively, she said, “Yeah, I mean, for me, there’s no survival. It’s such an exciting time to be part of the movies. Everyone is back in the theatre. Everyone’s creating such different kinds of projects. So I’m just enjoying the ride. I think what I always tell myself is to focus on your craft. Put your head down, keep doing the work, and good things will happen. And it’s your journey, don’t compare it to anyone else’s. The universe has the plans already set for you. I really strongly believe that, especially in our industry.”

She further explained that while ambition and planning are important, not everything is within one’s control, especially in showbiz. “It’s your destiny. Some things are in your control, and some things are not. What’s in your control is that you can keep working hard. The other things are just not, so why bother about that? I just focus on what I can do as an actor. And that’s having a good time, which is also really important, and working on myself. You can make your plans, but the plans are already written for you.”

In the age of instant reactions and relentless social media commentary, Shanaya also addressed how she processes feedback, particularly as someone who is often labelled an insider. “I’m here, that’s what I believe, for the audience’s acceptance. And if the audience is giving their feedback and showing you ways of where you can improve and what you need to work on, that’s what you owe to them as an actor. To listen and to believe that, okay, this is where I can obviously work on. Everyone has their strengths and weaknesses. It’s important to know that, take it on your side and work on it.”

Shanaya will next be seen in Tu Yaa Main with Adarsh Gourav.