Anurag Vyas Navigates New Storytelling Formats in Post-Lockdown Era
Anurag Vyas, known for his roles in popular television shows like Aap Ke Aa Jaane Se, Naagin, and Doree, is currently delving into the world of vertical cinema and has a film project in development. Reflecting on the transformative impact of the lockdown on entertainment, he highlights how it reshaped perceptions and opportunities for artists.
The Lockdown's Impact on Artistic Platforms
Anurag observes that the lockdown period fundamentally altered how artistes were viewed, leading to the emergence of new art forms and platforms. He notes, "New art forms emerged, new platforms were created, and actors began to be recognised for their individual strengths. At the time, some of it may have seemed excessive to a few people, but today it has become a thriving market." For him, being part of these evolving platforms from their inception holds significant value, as it allows for early adaptation and creative exploration.
Vertical Cinema vs. Television: A Balanced Perspective
When asked if vertical cinema feels more fulfilling than television, Anurag maintains a balanced view, emphasizing that each medium has its unique rhythm and appeal. He explains, "Every format has its own beauty. Vertical cinema reflects the fast-paced world we live in. It is short, intense and emotionally direct." This format, he adds, connects strongly with today's digital audience by offering stories in a fresh and intimate manner, while providing actors with creative freedom to experiment with diverse emotions and characters in a condensed timeframe.
Gratitude for Television and a Phase of Exploration
Despite his enthusiasm for films and web projects, Anurag clarifies that his time away from television is not a deliberate break. He shares, "Television has been a very meaningful part of my journey. It taught me discipline, patience and the importance of staying grounded." He expresses gratitude for the lessons learned on set, which included understanding emotions and trusting the creative process. Rather than viewing this as a hiatus, he sees it as a phase of exploration driven by a desire for growth and new challenges.
Pursuing Creative Fulfillment Over External Rewards
Anurag's career choices are motivated by creative fulfillment rather than external accolades. He states, "As an actor, I constantly feel the need to grow and challenge myself. Films and web projects excite me because they often offer deeper characters and bolder storytelling." For him, cinema is almost meditative, where the noise fades away when he is in front of the camera. He emphasizes that he is not chasing glamour or superficial success, but values honesty in storytelling above all.
Core Principles in a Diverse Career
Summing up his approach, Anurag reflects on his journey to Mumbai driven by a love for acting. He asserts, "Whether it is theatre, television, films, web or vertical cinema, the core remains the same. It is about performance, emotion and truth." This creative restlessness and the urge to engage in meaningful work continue to propel him forward, as he navigates the evolving landscape of entertainment with a focus on authenticity and artistic integrity.
