In an exclusive conversation with Farvi Wadhwa, Kanikka Kapur, a rising star in the Indian film industry, opens up about her journey from a young theatre enthusiast to a celebrated actress. A Delhi University graduate and an alumna of Delhi Public School, Mathura Road, Kanikka’s passion for acting was ignited at an early age, leading her to star in short films at just 13. Recently, she has been cast in the movie “Dono,” earning widespread love and appreciation for her performance.

Kanikka’s journey is a testament to her resilience, having navigated through both the highs and lows of the entertainment world. Despite moments of self-doubt and uncertainty, she has emerged stronger and more confident, embracing her path with grace. Grounded and reflective, Kanikka shares her evolving definition of success, the importance of personal growth, and her balanced approach to social media in a world that constantly scrutinizes public figures. With her humility and depth, Kanikka Kapur is not just an actress to watch out for, but also an inspiring individual who continues to grow both personally and professionally.

1.How has your journey been so far?
My journey, like everyone’s else’s, has been full of ups and downs and it will always continue to be that way. But with time, I’ve learned to navigate the lows better and also to celebrate the happy moments more. I believe we only have one life and that we must live every moment to the fullest. I make an effort to fill my life with values, learnings and experiences. I’m at that stage in my life where I happily embrace everything that I have been through – the good moments, but even the sad, bad or ugly moments because without them I wouldn’t be the person that I am today. I’m also very excited to see where my future takes me.

2. Were there moments when you felt like giving up? How did you push through those tough times?
   In life, things don’t always go according to plan and I think everyone has experienced that at some point. In those moments, one often doubts themselves and for me that period has mostly been when I didn’t have work for extended periods of time or when one project ended and no new projects were lined up. That’s one of the most vulnerable times for an artist and with time I’ve learnt to be more patient and stronger, but even during those tough times, I still stayed in that zone of believing and according to me, that is what makes all the difference. My confidence and belief in myself and the universe have always helped me push through. I’d say you need to have faith in your own self first and be your biggest motivator before more people come along, and they eventually always do when your work starts speaking for yourself.
3. How has your definition of success evolved?
   Initially, I had a very naive definition of success, thinking that if I have worked with big production houses or won many awards, I am successful. But as time went on, that definition changed drastically for me and I really believe that true success extends way beyond your place of work – it’s about being kind, it’s about pulling people up with you, it’s about improving your craft with every passing day and being better and more evolved than who you were yesterday. Success is in the small wins of life. Success is when your family is proud of you. Success is the blessings you get when you help someone in need. Success is when you knew no one in this industry but are still standing tall and proud in the city of dreams, working endlessly to make yours a reality.
4. How do you handle moments when your personal life becomes the subject of public scrutiny?
   Fortunately, I haven’t faced too much negative scrutiny. I prefer to keep my personal life private and under wraps. I’m active on social media, but I still keep my personal life limited to a close circle.
5. In what ways has social media helped you grow personally or professionally?
   Initially, I didn’t realize how impactful social media could be. Over time, I’ve come to understand that it’s a great platform if you have viewpoints to share with the world or make people aware of something because messages spread like wildfire on it. Since most casting directors now also look at your social media profile along with your auditions and work links, it has become an inevitable part of our professional life, but I still believe that it shouldn’t take over your life completely which I see is happening with a lot of people lately. It should be used in moderation. One should stay both connected and detached from it as and when needed. I prefer to spend time away from it and focus on other things, but it has definitely helped me grow professionally and connect with more people. I’m also very grateful to have the most supportive, loving and thoughtful people as my followers who have always shown immense love and support to me on my social media and kept me motivated throughout my journey