In the vibrant world of Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms, few faces capture the creative diversity like Shriya Pilgaonkar. Beginning her journey with the 2013 Marathi movie “Ekulti Ek,” directed by her illustrious father Sachin Pilgaonkar, Shriya has navigated the labyrinthine world of acting with grace and tenacity. Her filmography boasts substantial contributions to renowned web series such as “Mirzapur,” “Guilty Minds,” “The Broken News,” and Disney+ Hotstar’s “Taaza Khabar.” These accolades have established her as a pivotal presence in the digital space. However, she harbors a more cinematic dream – to star in a lavish period drama directed by none other than the maestro of grand tales, Sanjay Leela Bhansali.
In a candid exchange with PTI, the versatile actor, who has also explored the silver screen with multilingual ventures like “Un plus une,” “Fan,” and “House Arrest,” divulged plans to expand her cinematic repertoire with two feature films soon to be announced. Shriya, aged 35, articulated a desire to find equilibrium in her career. “My current focus gravitates towards films, which is a medium I’ve not extensively explored,” she expressed.
Despite her roots in reality-based narratives, Pilgaonkar longs for the quintessential Bollywood spectacle. “An ambitious cinematic period drama with all the grandeur that a Sanjay Leela Bhansali film offers is my dream. These larger-than-life Bollywood masala films embody every actor’s fantasy,” she shared. It is a bold leap, as Shriya acknowledges the need to step out of her comfort zone to fulfill this ambition.
Her path forward is one of self-determination and innovation. “You have to take risks for your growth. Opportunities aren’t simply handed out,” she noted. Moreover, Shriya is not only participating in the creative process as an actor but is actively collaborating with others to develop fresh narratives. Her recent stint as a jury member at the Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles highlighted the necessity for creative independence. “Meeting inspiring writers and filmmakers reinforced my belief in carving one’s own path in this industry,” she reflected.
Currently, Shriya reprises her dynamic role as the spirited sex worker Madhu in the second season of “Taaza Khabar.
.” The show, spearheaded by YouTuber and actor Bhuvan Bam, allowed Shriya to dive into the realm of comedy, a genre she revisited after years. “Comedy has evolved; it’s not confined to slapstick anymore but can be subtle and conversational. I’m enthusiastic about exploring diverse genres like dark comedies,” she enthused.
Acting, as Shriya remarked, was an organic development in her life. While acting talent flowed inherently from her actor parents Sachin and Supriya Pilgaonkar, Shriya’s journey in performing arts found profound expression through her training as a Kathak dancer. She is also a professional swimmer, showcasing her varied talents. “I was fortunate to enter the industry not just because of my lineage. I honed my skills, which I hold dear. My entrance was genuine and unforced,” she emphasized.
Contrary to prevalent narratives surrounding star kids, Shriya’s journey diverged from expectations. “I wasn’t gracing magazine covers prior to establishing myself. My work built my reputation, especially post ‘Mirzapur,'” she said, alluding to the unique recognition her work garnered. For Shriya, the compliment that her work reached audiences before her identity was immensely gratifying.
The actor asserts that familial ties don’t guarantee an easier path for the subsequent generation. “We must learn from our own victories and failures. Whatever others might speculate, everyone’s journey is distinct,” she stated emphatically. Sustaining a career in showbiz presents its challenges, as Shriya affirmed. “Creating your own trajectory is crucial, and I’ve always believed in being true to oneself and focusing diligently on work,” she concluded.
As Shriya Pilgaonkar continues to captivate through diverse roles and platforms, her determination to shine in a Sanjay Leela Bhansali period epic reflects her unwavering passion and ambition to transcend boundaries and redefine her craft on a larger, more illustrious stage.
