Sara Ali Khan, Janhvi Kapoor and I support each other very publicly, says Call Me Bae actress Ananya Panday

At Prime Video’s Maitri: Female First Collective, Ananya Panday shared her experiences as a young woman in the film industry. Since her debut in 2019 and her recent role in the successful series "Call Me Bae," Ananya has grown not just as an actress but also as a strong advocate for change.

During the conversation, Ananya talked about how her early years in the industry helped her find her voice. She said, "I think I've become a lot more vocal about what I stand for." For her, it’s important to speak out, especially in an industry where women often face challenges. “What keeps me going is seeing change; knowing that speaking up or even through cinema you can actually make an impact.” Ananya highlighted that her biggest reward comes when young girls tell her they feel inspired by her authenticity. “Even if one young girl comes up to me and says I am myself because you are yourself and I feel comfortable in my skin, for me that’s where I have done my job.”

Ananya also addressed the common idea that women in entertainment are often pitted against each other. “They keep pitting women against each other, actresses against actresses,” she noted. However, she pointed out that her friendships with Sara Ali Khan and Janhvi Kapoor show a different story. “With Sara and Janhavi, it’s not a very conscious attempt; we constantly try to be there for each other and support each other very publicly.” This kind of support is crucial, especially in an industry that sometimes promotes competition instead of collaboration.

By sharing their friendship openly, Ananya, Sara, and Janhvi aim to challenge negative stereotypes. “We are showing people this is how female friendships are supposed to be like, don’t believe any other way,” Ananya explained. Her goal is to redefine the narrative around women in the industry, showing that they can lift each other up instead of tearing each other down.

The Maitri initiative, launched in 2022 by Prime Video, provides a platform for women in Indian media and entertainment to come together. It encourages discussions about their experiences, challenges, and successes. Ananya’s participation in this event highlights the importance of building a supportive community for women.

Through her journey, Ananya Panday is not only carving out her own path but also inspiring others to embrace their true selves. Her story reflects a growing cultural shift, focusing on empowerment and connection among women. She believes that true strength comes from unity, and she wants to inspire others to support one another.

Ananya’s message is clear: female friendships can be a powerful force in the entertainment industry. By advocating for change and being there for her friends, she is helping to create a better environment for women. As she said, the impact of her work is most meaningful when it inspires others. Ananya embodies the idea that when women come together, they can create positive change, not just for themselves but for future generations. Her voice and actions are making a difference, showing that solidarity among women can truly reshape the industry.