When actor Kunj Anand had to quit photography to pursue acting

Actor Kunj Anand has a story that transcends mere stardom. His rise from working as a photographer's assistant to becoming a well-recognized actor is a testament to his dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to his craft. Before his breakthrough roles in projects like “Your Honor” and “Crash,” his journey began in the shadows of the film and television industry. In 2017, he took on a job as a photographer’s assistant, a role far from the limelight but crucial in shaping his understanding of the visual aspects of acting. Reflecting on those early days, Kunj shares, “I worked as a photographer’s assistant to get a grasp of lighting and posing in front of the camera. It was more about learning the ropes of the industry and understanding the technical side of things. I used to earn around ₹5,000 a month, which was more like pocket money. But I knew that this was just a stepping stone.”

Despite the financial constraints and the modest earnings, he remained resolute in his pursuit of acting. “I had promised myself that I would never take up a regular job because I felt it would take away from my acting rehearsal time. My focus was always on honing my skills and preparing for opportunities in acting,” he says. Kunj's commitment to his acting career soon began to pay off. His breakthrough came in 2020 with the role of Harman Mudki in the show Your Honor, where his portrayal of the antagonist captured audiences and critics alike. This success was followed by notable roles in Crash and Mumbai Diaries, further cementing his reputation as a versatile actor. In his latest venture, Kunj Anand has taken on the role of Ashish Khanna in the show Pill. Portraying a whistleblower in a pharmaceutical scam, Kunj has once again proved his acting chops. Reflecting on this role, he reveals, “Playing Ashish Khanna was a significant challenge, but also a rewarding experience. I had to immerse myself deeply in the world of pharmaceuticals and the ethical dilemmas faced by my character.”