Ananya Panday’s lifestyle is all about finding the sweet spot between wellness and fun. She balances yoga, strength training and wholesome home-cooked meals with the occasional burger, pizza or cookie, proving moderation is key. Off duty, comfort is her style mantra, while travel and outdoor adventures help her recharge and embrace new experiences. For Ananya, the secret is simple: stay active, eat well, explore often and always leave room for life’s little indulgences. Excerpts from an easy-breezy interview.
Favourite Filmfare red-carpet look of yours?
I loved the gold Elie Saab gown I wore to the Filmfare OTT Awards last year, when I won Best Actress in a Comedy Role. But my first-ever Filmfare Awards outfit will always be my favourite. I wore a yellow frilled skirt with a black off-shoulder top and felt like a cupcake. It remains one of my most special memories.
What makes you feel stylish?
Feeling comfortable in what I’m wearing and not following too many trends. If you’re unhappy with your outfit, it shows on your face. I feel most stylish when I’m doing my own thing and not listening to too many opinions.
Monsoon essentials…
Shorts, loose linen clothes and breezy skirts, even if they’re a little long.
A holiday you’d take at this time of the year.
Somewhere in Europe, probably Greece or Spain.
How do you like to unwind after a hectic day?
I spend time with my four dogs, read a book and sit on my balcony surrounded by trees. Anything that helps me connect with nature relaxes me. I also enjoy spending time with my friends and family and watching films.
A beauty hack for all the girls reading this…
Spray rose water on your face. It instantly refreshes and hydrates the skin.
If given a choice, who would you like to do a photoshoot with?
My dogs! It would be quite a challenge to get all of them looking in the same direction, but I’d love to
do a shoot with them.
Three things you hope to do this year?
Spend more time with my sister, who lives in New York and whom I don’t get to see often. Complete my reading goal for the year. Finish visiting all 12 Jyotirlingas, fingers crossed.
You often speak about spreading positivity on social media. What advice would you give to people struggling with negativity online?
Honestly, when you step back and look at the bigger picture, you realise it happens to everyone. That takes away a lot of its power. It can feel scary and overwhelming when it’s directed at you, but then you notice that even people who seem successful and confident face it too. That helps you understand that it isn’t as frightening as it first appears.
Who are the girls in your life with whom you share the ‘Bhencode’ bond?
Definitely my OG baes, Muskkaan Jaferi and Niharika Lyra Dutt. Also Suhana Khan, Shanaya Kapoor, Navya Naveli Nanda and my school friends. I’m lucky to have many wonderful “Bhens” in my life.
Directors you’d love to work with but haven’t yet?
Karan Johar, Zoya Akhtar and Sanjay Leela Bhansali. Those three are definitely on my dream list.
What does Filmfare mean to you?
Every time I work with Filmfare, it feels surreal. I’m reminded of being a little girl who would get excited when the magazine arrived at home or when it was time to watch the awards. Being part of anything associated with Filmfare still feels like a pinch-me moment.
Also Read: Ananya Panday, Ahaan Panday’s Sister Alanna Panday Announces Second Pregnancy With Ivor McCray
