Former Miss India Earth Alankrita Sahai on her journey, challenges and aspirations

Alankrita Sahai is a name synonymous with grace and talent, having made her mark in the world of modeling and acting. Starting her journey by winning Miss India Earth 2014, Alankrita has transitioned smoothly into the entertainment industry, taking on diverse roles and proving herself as a versatile actress. In this candid interview with India Forums, Alankrita talks about her journey, the challenges she's faced, and her aspirations as an artist.

How was the transition from modeling to acting for you?

Alankrita Sahai: The transition was not as easy as many might think. The biggest challenge was probably shedding the image of a model and proving my versatility as an actress. Acting requires a different skill set—emotional depth, preparation, and an understanding of the characters you're playing. It took me time to adapt to the nuances of the industry. People often overlook the hard work that goes into acting compared to modeling, but I’ve grown through the process and continue to evolve.

Was acting always part of your dream, or did it come later?

Alankrita Sahai: I’ve always had a passion for performing arts, though as a child, I never imagined I’d end up pursuing acting. It was only after winning Miss India Earth that I saw acting as a serious possibility. That moment was a turning point for me—it gave me the confidence to chase my dreams and pursue acting as a career. It felt like life had opened new doors for me, and I was ready to walk through them.

Have there been moments when you doubted your place in the industry?

Alankrita Sahai: Absolutely, there have been moments of doubt, especially during auditions or after facing rejections. The industry is tough, and it’s easy to feel discouraged, wondering if you truly belong. But in those moments, I remind myself why I started—my passion for storytelling and performing. It’s my love for the craft that keeps me going despite the ups and downs.

You mentioned being replaced in a project before. How did you handle that?

Alankrita Sahai: Yes, I’ve been replaced in a project before, and it was tough to handle emotionally. It made me question where I could improve, but I quickly realized that sometimes it's not personal—it's part of the industry and often involves the politics of agencies and studios. I try to take it in stride and focus on my craft rather than dwell on what didn’t work out.

What do you prioritize when choosing projects—screen time or quality of role?

Alankrita Sahai: For me, it’s always about quality over quantity. I prefer to choose projects that resonate with me rather than take on roles just for the sake of being on screen. I want to do justice to the characters I play and to my fans. Right now, I’m seeking opportunities that challenge me and showcase my talent in a deeper way, not just my presence.

What’s your take on the paparazzi culture in India?

Alankrita Sahai: The paparazzi culture can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it helps fans stay connected to us and builds a bridge between celebrities and the public. But it can also invade your personal space. I think it’s important to maintain a balance—while being in the public eye is part of our job, there needs to be mutual respect for personal privacy.

Social media plays a huge role in the lives of celebrities today. How do you view its impact on your career?

Alankrita Sahai: Social media has completely revolutionized how we connect with audiences. It’s a powerful tool for self-expression and building a personal brand. However, it does come with its pressures—like maintaining a certain image or handling trolls. Despite these challenges, social media has been beneficial for my career, allowing me to interact directly with my fans and showcase different aspects of my personality and work.

Do you have any regrets about your career choices?

Alankrita Sahai: I try not to dwell on regrets. Every experience, whether good or bad, has shaped me as an actress and as a person. I believe in learning from the past and using those lessons to grow. Each setback or success is a stepping stone towards where I want to be.

Can you tell us about your current and upcoming projects?

Alankrita Sahai: I’m currently working on a few exciting projects. Some of them include Pati Patni Aur Kand, Tere Bin, and several Punjabi films and music videos. There are also a few other projects that I can’t reveal just yet, but they’re definitely challenging roles that will showcase a different side of me as an actress. I’m really looking forward to their release!

Are there any particular genres or roles you’re eager to explore in the future?

Alankrita Sahai: I’m especially interested in exploring more complex characters and genres, like psychological thrillers or period dramas. I want to push my boundaries as an actress and take on roles that are unexpected or outside the box. I’m always looking for ways to grow, and I think stepping into new genres will allow me to do just that.

Alankrita Sahai’s journey from the glamorous world of modeling to the challenging realm of acting has been one of resilience and passion. With a steady flow of projects, a desire to explore diverse roles, and a grounded perspective on fame, Alankrita is carving her own path in the entertainment industry.