Naila Grewal is back in action as Ananya Shroff in Season 2 of Maamla Legal Hai, and she’s overwhelmed by the audience’s affection for the show. Having started her career with a brief role in Tamasha, Naila feels that every opportunity she’s embraced has contributed to her growth as an actor. In an exclusive interview with mid-day, she discusses the excitement surrounding the second season, her experiences with Ranbir Kapoor, and the subtle sexism she has encountered within the industry.
Regarding Maamla Legal Hai Season 2, Naila expresses her enthusiasm for the show, emphasizing its refreshing departure from the psychological thrillers and action-packed content that dominate both OTT platforms and cinema. “This is the kind of show you can enjoy with your family—perfect for a meal or when you’re in the mood for something light, fun, and relevant,” she explains.
Naila has always prioritized quality over quantity in her work. “I’ve come to understand that every decision shapes who you are as an actor. Coming from outside the industry, I know that opportunities can be limited. Every day presents new challenges.”
Reflecting on her time working with Ranbir Kapoor in Tamasha, Naila describes it as a pivotal moment in her early career. Collaborating with him helped her realize the importance of self-awareness in acting, as every nuance is captured on camera. “I was struck by my own lack of awareness at the time. Acting requires a deep level of self-awareness because every little detail is visible on screen.”
Naila admires Ranbir’s extraordinary talent and his natural ability to transition in and out of character. “Ranbir Kapoor is still my favorite. Watching him perform live was surreal, and the honesty in his eyes when he acts is something that has truly resonated with me. That intensity is something I’ve learned to appreciate deeply.”
While she had limited interaction with Deepika Padukone, Naila respects her individuality and ability to maintain her voice in the industry. She also touched on the sexism she has faced, sharing how Anubhav Sinha’s Thappad was a turning point for her. “For the first time, I felt heard as an actor. Anubhav provided the women on set the space to explore and express themselves, which was refreshing. Before that, it often felt like I was just told what to do.”
On the topic of self-doubt, Naila candidly discussed how external pressures can lead artists to question their worth. “I’ve experienced that too. My family’s unwavering support has been invaluable during tough times, reminding me that I’m not alone in this journey.”
Naila also reflected on missing an opportunity for the film 12th Fail, admitting she regretted not responding to the casting call. “It was such a fantastic project, and I beat myself up for not pursuing it. However, I’ve grown to believe in destiny, and perhaps it was just meant to be that way.”