Bhavana Panday Reveals Shocking Moment with Daughter Ananya – Here’s What Left Her Speechless!

Ananya Panday's mother, Bhavana Panday, recently shared insights into the family’s reaction when Ananya chose to forgo college for a career in Bollywood. Ananya, who made her debut with Student of the Year 2, has since established herself in the industry, taking on diverse roles. However, her path to the silver screen was one that came as a surprise to her parents, Bhavana and Chunky Panday.

In an interview with Entertainment Live, Bhavana recalled that after Ananya completed school, she was set to leave for college, having secured a spot to study media and communication at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles. "The registration process had been completed," Bhavana mentioned, underscoring that the young actress's academic path appeared certain.

The twist came when director Puneet Malhotra, who was casting for Student of the Year 2, approached Bhavana at a party. Malhotra, as Bhavana recounted, mentioned he was "looking for a girl for the film" and asked if Ananya might be interested. Bhavana responded that "The Dream Girl 2 actress was going to college," but Malhotra encouraged her to let Ananya try for the audition if she was open to it. Bhavana explained that other industry insiders soon reached out as well, leading Ananya to take up the audition, which she aced, impressing everyone involved.

Once Ananya was selected, she delivered the news to her parents with a simple, yet impactful, "I am not going to college." Bhavana admitted, "We were shocked," as they had always been certain Ananya would pursue her studies first. Adding to their surprise, the movie had already faced a one-year delay, further reinforcing their belief that she would head to college.

We didn’t want to force Ananya into any decision, as we didn’t want her to blame us later.

- Bhavana Panday

Reflecting on the decision, Bhavana acknowledged Ananya’s resolve, sharing, "Although we initially thought she would go to college, we ultimately respected her decision." She went on to explain the importance of allowing Ananya to make her own choice. Bhavana also noted that if Ananya had chosen the academic route, her life could have taken an entirely different direction.

On the professional front, Ananya Panday’s upcoming projects include an untitled film with Akshay Kumar and R. Madhavan. She will also appear in Chand Mera Dil and the sequel to Call Me Bae.