After my father Aanjjan Srivastav’s accident in 2002, we’ve seen days when we struggled to survive': Ranjana Aanjjan | Exclusive
Ranjana Aanjjan, a seasoned theatre artist, has recently made her screen debut with the film Chand Tara, which has already gained recognition by having its trailer screened at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. Her journey, however, has been far from glamorous or overnight fame. Growing up in a deeply rooted theatre family, she was mentored by stalwarts like her father, Aanjjan Srivastav, and legends from the Indian People’s Theatre Association. This upbringing instilled in her a deep appreciation for craft, discipline, and the process over the outcome.
In this candid interview, Ranjana opens up about her overwhelming transition from stage to screen, her father’s unwavering support, the financial struggles that shaped her middle-class upbringing, and the life lessons she learned from icons. Her first film, Chand Tara, not only marks her screen debut but also connects her to the prestigious Cannes Film Festival, raising the stakes and expectations.
The Stage to Screen Transition
Ranjana’s journey into screen acting was not a straightforward path. She spent nearly 15 years immersed in theatre, acting, managing productions, handling lights and sound, and even serving as her father’s proxy actor when needed. Despite her extensive experience, she initially doubted her readiness for screen acting, considering it a different and challenging medium. The Covid-19 pandemic further complicated matters, as theatre took a long time to recover economically, while screen auditions slowly resumed, creating an identity crisis for Ranjana.
When screen opportunities finally emerged, Ranjana was determined to make the transition. She approached her screen debut with the same dedication and discipline she brought to theatre, treating it like another play. Her 15 years of stage experience prepared her for this moment, even though she never imagined it would happen.
Overcoming Challenges and Doubts
The transition from stage to screen was not without its challenges. Ranjana had to pick up a Hyderabadi Urdu accent, understand the style of a singer from a period drama, and deal with heavy lines. Despite the overwhelming nature of the task, she approached it with the same mindset she had for theatre, focusing on the process rather than the outcome. Her director’s advice to treat it like a play helped calm her nerves, and she eventually found her footing in screen acting.
Father’s Unwavering Support
Ranjana’s father, Aanjjan Srivastav, played a pivotal role in her journey. He provided both emotional and practical support, encouraging her to pursue screen acting despite her initial doubts. He advised her to divide her focus between acting and a technical skill, such as graphic design, to ensure financial stability. His belief in her abilities grew as she showed confidence in herself, and he supported her with even greater conviction.
The Cannes Connection
The trailer for Chand Tara being screened at the Cannes Film Festival is a significant milestone for Ranjana. It represents not only a personal achievement but also a validation of her hard work and dedication. The film’s heritage value, backed by Telangana Tourism and centered around the iconic Taramati Baradari, adds to its significance. Ranjana’s role as Taramati, a historical figure with little documented information, required her to focus on emotions and the subtext behind the lines.
Looking Ahead
Ranjana’s future plans include continuing her work in theatre, where she is currently serving as a joint section chief director. She is also working on an OTT project, Pyramid Scheme, which features her father in a small part. Her goal is to continue pursuing both stage and screen opportunities, learning and growing as an actor. She remains grounded, recognizing that success in this industry is not solely about fame but also about the respect and legacy she can build through her work.
In conclusion, Ranjana Aanjjan’s journey from stage to screen is a testament to her dedication, discipline, and unwavering support from her family. As she continues to explore both mediums, she remains focused on her craft, determined to make the most of every opportunity that comes her way.
