Anita Hassanandani has charmed television audiences for years, but few know her journey began on the big screen. She made her film debut in Subhash Ghai’s Taal, where she played the role of Aishwarya Rai’s close friend. It was a small part, but it marked the beginning of a long and eventful career. In a recent episode of SCREEN’s Dear Me, Anita reflected on her experience with honesty, nostalgia, and a touch of emotion.
She recalled feeling overwhelmed when she first stepped onto a film set. Everything was grand. The names attached to the project were massive. Subhash Ghai, Aishwarya Rai, and even Shahid Kapoor who, as she noted, was part of the background ensemble at the time. Anita said, “My first little role was in Taal, and I was nervous. It was a small role and I wondered how it would happen, but Subhash Ghaiji motivated me. He said, ‘You are very pretty, you will do good, I will make you act.’” That encouragement stayed with her.
She followed every direction she received on set with quiet determination. Though she didn’t have many lines, she knew this was her moment to begin something meaningful. The days were long, and the shooting lasted for nearly 10 days, despite her role being on screen for only a few minutes. But for Anita, those moments held more value than screen time.
Working closely with Aishwarya Rai made the experience even more surreal. Anita remembered being awestruck by her beauty and presence. “She was gorgeous to another level. In Taal, she is hardly wearing any makeup,” she said, her voice filled with admiration. Standing next to someone so iconic, Anita felt like she was day dreaming.
At the time, Anita was shy and unsure of herself. She confessed that she didn’t speak much to Aishwarya between takes or even after wrap-up. She felt too junior, too invisible in the presence of big names. “If I were who I am today, I would have had a conversation, but back then, I was in my shell. I didn’t know anything, and I felt just too small,” she shared. Still, being in that environment lit a spark inside her.
Anita also talked about how many now-famous faces were involved in Taal. Shahid Kapoor, who went on to become a major star, was part of the background team. She said the film became a launchpad for more people than just those in lead roles. While she didn’t get much screen time, the learning she took away from those days was far more significant. “I was so mesmerized by everything happening around me,” she said. “Even though the role was small, over there I felt so special to get that chance out of nowhere. I wanted to make the most of it, so I gave it my best.”
Now, years later, Anita has become a household name in Indian television. She has played a variety of roles and won the love of millions. Her early hesitation has evolved into confidence. She’s no longer the shy newcomer. Her last appearance was in Colors TV’s Suman Indori. Up next, she’s ready to show a new side of herself on Zee TV’s reality series Choriyaan Chali Gaon.
