Not all things we do need to make money for us; some are done purely for personal joy.
Not all things we do need to make money for us; some are done purely for personal joy.
Vandana Gupta is an actor and writer from Uttar Pradesh, who now calls Jaipur her home.
Growing up with the core value of “Simple Living, High Thinking," she was raised in a Hindi-speaking household where even a single English word was not allowed.
Her father, a Hindi teacher, played a significant role in her life, being not just a father but a guru who taught her about religion, wisdom, and even cooking. His remarkable ability to remain smiling through the toughest times continues to inspire Vandana, teaching her to stay positive, be happy, and spread happiness to others.
Vandana says that her journey into acting began in Mumbai when she was reciting a poem, and caught the attention of a film director who saw potential in her. This serendipitous encounter led her to pursue acting, marking a decade-long career in the field. Vandana's first acting role was in the Hollywood web series ‘Made in Heaven’, opening doors to various opportunities.
She went on to showcase her talent in the epic TV series ‘Mahabharat’, portraying the role of Dronacharya's wife. Vandana also had the privilege of working alongside the late Irrfan Khan in a Master Card ad. Her acting prowess extends to the film ‘Sarkar Hazir Ho’ and several ads for the Congress, the BJP, and the Bal Yojna.
Vandana's commitment to her craft led her to take on an international short film assignment based in Rajasthan. Despite living in the state, she was not fluent in the Rajasthani language. However, with the support of her director and the kind assistance of villagers during filming, she not only mastered her role but also learned the value of absorbing knowledge from the people around her.
Revealing her path to becoming a writer, Vandana recalls receiving a diary and pen from her father upon completing the 8th grade. He encouraged her to write down her thoughts, especially those she hesitated to share with others, allowing only him to read her diary. As she wrote about her joys and sorrows, her father noticed that her words took the form of poetry. This discovery led to the publication of her writings, marking the beginning of her journey as a writer.
Witnessing the struggles of women around her, Vandana found inspiration to focus her writing on their experiences. She acknowledges her good fortune in having a father who treated women with respect and gratitude.
Vandana was born in Muzaffarnagar, a city in Uttar Pradesh. She began her schooling at the age of five in an Arya Samaj school, with her parents teaching her the basics beforehand. She continued her education, completing her schooling, graduation, and post-graduation in Arts and Painting. Vandana's love for painting persists, and she often portrays women and nature in her artwork.
An opportunity arose for Vandana to teach at a school where her sons were studying. A Sanskrit and Drawing teacher was needed, and the principal, already acquainted with Vandana through her sons, invited her to join the faculty. This experience fulfilled Vandana's dream of teaching and educating students.
Although Vandana has always desired to teach underprivileged children, her family is not supportive of this aspiration, believing she should only teach those who come to her.
Delving deeper into her life story, Vandana shares her initial struggles in pursuing an acting career. Although her family was unsupportive, her elder brother-in-law and his wife offered encouragement, allowing her to follow her dreams. During those trying times, Vandana found solace in writing, penning a touching couplet that expressed her emotions.
Vandana firmly believes in the importance of pursuing one's passions, as it leads to giving 100% effort. She asserts that everyone should have the right to follow their dreams and receive respect for their choices. Despite dealing with arthritis pain, Vandana continues to engage in painting, writing, and acting, as these activities help her forget her pain and bring her joy.
Inspired by her drawing teacher, Vandana completed her Master's degree with the aspiration of becoming an educator. Although her family did not approve of teaching, she remained determined to fulfil her dreams in any way possible.
As Vandana wasn't allowed to go out and teach, she found joy in painting on utensils at home. She believes that not all things we love to do need to bring us money. Some things we do just because they make us happy. Although it can be saddening when we're not allowed to earn even if we can, Vandana suggests finding other ways to be happy.
In order to see positive changes in society, Vandana says we must first change ourselves and our families. Since we are part of society, we should be the ones to make a difference.
Vandana shares a story from her childhood, when she was in the 3rd grade and known for being very mischievous. Her cousins were 15-20 years older and often complained to her father, who patiently replied that she would learn in time.
Vandana recounts another incident from her school days. She once approached a 1st grade girl and inquired about her lunch. Upon discovering the girl had an inadequate meal, Vandana, being the assertive child she was, insisted that it wasn't a proper lunch. The young girl explained that her grandmother had prepared it since she didn't have a mother. Moved by this revelation, Vandana gave her own lunch to the girl.
The next day, Vandana asked the same girl for something, but when she refused, Vandana impulsively slapped her. However, looking into the girl's eyes, Vandana felt as though Lord Krishna himself was staring back, tearfully urging her to change her mischievous ways. This experience marked a turning point in her life, inspiring her to abandon her aggressive behaviour.
Through this incident, Vandana recognised the divinity in every human being, emphasising the importance of compassion and empathy.
Her message to everyone is to always stay positive in life, facing challenges with grace and understanding.