Exclusive Interview: Adrija Roy on Transitioning From State-Level Athletics to Leading 'Anupamaa' as Rahi

In an exclusive interview with Devbhumi Uttarakhand Magazine for our October cover edition, Adrija Roy, currently winning hearts as Rahi (Aadhya) in Star Plus’ flagship daily soap Anupamaa, opens up about her transformative journey from a state-level sprinter to leading lady on Indian television.

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in this industry?

Growing up, I was full of energy and curiosity. I was one of those kids who could never sit still. Whether it was sports, dance or school events, I wanted to be a part of everything. I loved expressing myself, and I think that is where the performer in me began. Before entering the acting world, I was a state-level sprinter and long jumper. Sports taught me many lessons that still help me in my career. Being on the track and waiting for the whistle taught me the importance of focus, discipline and determination. Even today, as an actor, I carry that same mindset with me and try to give my best in everything I do. My journey from athletics to acting began during college when I discovered theatre. The first time I stepped on stage and heard the applause, something just clicked inside me. I felt like I had found something I truly wanted to do. Acting became my new passion and gave me a different kind of freedom to express myself. The transition was not easy, but I was lucky to have my family by my side. My parents always encouraged me to follow my heart. They trusted my decisions and never stopped supporting me, even when I chose a different path. Their faith in me gave me the courage to dream differently and pursue what made me happy.

Q: Is there something new you're working on that you want your fans to know about? They're all waiting to know!!

Right now, my complete focus and energy are dedicated to playing Rahi (Aadhya) in Anupamaa. Joining such a massive, beloved show has been an incredible journey, and the daily shooting schedule keeps me very busy. However, I am always open to exploring fresh creative challenges, and I do hope to venture into streaming platforms and maybe even a supernatural role down the line when the right opportunity comes along!

Q: What’s the most challenging thing or project you’ve ever taken on? Do you get tired or scared of something? Or some kind of work?

Moving my base from Kolkata to Mumbai in 2021 was a huge hurdle. Facing initial rejections, struggling with the language barrier in Hindi auditions, and feeling completely isolated in a new city made me want to give up and head back home. The daily soap format itself can be incredibly hectic and emotionally draining, especially when filming high-intensity emotional scenes. Earlier in my career, I used to get very overwhelmed and carry that heavy energy home. Now, I use yoga and pranayama to manage that stress and find my balance. What scares me isn't hard work, but the thought of becoming stagnant or losing honesty in my performances.

Q: What’s the best advice you’ve ever received about working in this and how do you handle the pressures of fame and public attention?

The best advice came from my mother during a phase when I felt completely broken by struggles in Mumbai. She motivated me to stay patient, keep fighting for my dreams, and trust the process. Also, working with senior co-stars like Rupali Ganguly has taught me that an actor's core job is to focus strictly on the performance and let go of external factors like TRPs or numbers. When it comes to public scrutiny and social media pressure, I deal with it by drawing a firm line between my professional life and personal life. I ignore the negativity, focus on the love from viewers, and practice self-acceptance rather than trying to project a flawless image online.

Q: What’s one thing you wish you knew when you were starting out? And What advice would you give to someone new trying to break into the industry?

I wish I knew that rejections are a normal part of the process and not a reflection of your worth. It takes time to find the right project. My advice to newcomers is to focus on honing your craft rather than chasing instant validation. In the age of social media, remember that acting is an art that requires patience, dedication and emotional depth. Don't be in a rush; build substance.

Q: How do you select your roles and scripts? Is there any specific genre or character you really want to play?

I look for authenticity in the narrative and roles that offer a genuine emotional range. I want to play characters that showcase different sides of my personality as an actor. For me, it is important to enjoy what I am doing and feel connected to the character I play. I am also keen to explore intense, complex and offbeat stories. Anushka Sharma's character in Pari is one example of the kind of performance that inspires me. I would love to play a character that pushes me emotionally and allows me to explore a different side of acting. I want to keep learning, experimenting and taking up roles that help me grow as an actor.