“It’s always fun to tackle complex, emotionally raw roles that challenge my acting boundaries, says Vishakha Pandey, the Benaras firecracker, who blazed onto screen as justice-seeking Gouri in the series Swipe Crime, which delved into the busting dating app crimes and the quest for justice following a tragic incident.

2023 was the year of metamorphosis. As the fierce Radhika Shukla in Garmi, she held her own against Tigmanshu Dhulia, turning what could have been just another political drama into not-to-be-missed television. Add to that the friendship maze in Dil, Dosti, Dilemma and her heartwarming role playing Sweety in Black Warrant—and you’ve got an actress who refuses to be boxed in.

“The best roles? They’re the ones that keep you up at night,” she says, eyes sparkling with future plans. Fresh from these successes, she’s already craving more—stories that dig deeper, characters that demand everything.

Catching up with TheGlitz, Vishakha Pandey opens up about her journey from Benaras to the small screen and why she’s just getting started.

Spotlight: Vishakha Pandey

Vishakha Pandey, Let’s start with home—where are your roots?

Banaras. The City of Temples, amazing food, and the best vibes.

The acting bug—when did it bite you?

Honestly, I never planned it! Life just threw an opportunity my way, and I thought, why not? I grabbed it, and I’m so glad I did. It’s a long story, though—I will share it someday.

First time on set— Vishakha Pandey, how did that moment feel?

My first project was Garmi, and I got to work with Tigmanshu Dhulia, sir, which was insane in the best way possible. And guess what—my very first experience on camera included being scolded at. Haha! Talk about a grand welcome to the industry.

Name some challenges with being an actress. How have you overcome these and become so successful?

It’s still just the beginning for me. There’s so much more to do, so many roles to explore. Challenges come and go, but honestly, I kind of enjoy them. Whether it’s understanding a character’s background, learning new scripts, or adapting to new roles, it’s like solving a new puzzle every time, and I love that.

“Swipe Crime” tackled some real digital-age issues through Gouri’s character. What made you say “yes” to that story?

The story itself. There are so many crime shows out there, but blending entertainment with real, relevant information is not easy. And Gouri is the most sorted person in the show. Playing her was so much fun because while the chaos unfolded around her, she brought this calm, level headed energy that lits up the screen. It was like being the eye of the storm in the best way possible.

From “Garmi” to “Dil Dosti Dilemma”—quite” a journey. Which role challenged you the most?

Every character I’ve played has been so different. But if I had to pick, Rukshana from Dil Dosti Dilemma definitely pushed me the most. I had to work on my accent; there were lots of workshops with the director to get every little detail right.

Your role as Sweety in “Black Warrant” feels so natural. How much of you is in her?

Like her name, Sweety is honestly the sweetest! She’s the only one in Sunil’s family who supports his dream of becoming a jailor, and that’s something I really connected with. Not to brag, but I’m also super supportive in real life—especially when it comes to my Yash. So playing Sweety felt pretty natural.

Between your diverse roles, which character felt closest to home?

Gouri from Swipe Crime for sure. She’s smart, independent, and super loyal in her relationships. Playing her felt special, like stepping into a version of myself that I would admire. Definitely my favourite character till now.

Let’s talk me-time—what does your real-life playlist look like?

Banarasi girl at heart! I believe in living life to the fullest. I love spending time with my family even if it’s just on video calls. I love a good book sometimes or bingeing on a great show, reading and analysing scripts.

Has acting changed your life?

One hundred percent! Acting has completely changed the way I see things. My vision has become so much more creative—I’ve learnt to find multiple perspectives in a single scene. It’s also pushed me to work on my personality, my language, and just overall growth as an artist. But this is just the beginning—so much to learn and explore.

What do you do to prepare for a TV show? How do you get into character?

I just dive right into the script first—I really need to know my character, who she is, how she talks, and what’s going on in her head. Once I figure that out, then I sit with the director to see what they have in mind, and from there it’s all about making her real.

Acting’s highs and ugh-moments—reveal!

I love so many things about acting. I’m a huge travel person, so visiting new cities and places because of this job is a dream. I get to live so many different lives—it’s like stepping into different worlds, and I love that. I don’t hate much, honestly. But yeah, that post-audition heartbreak. It’s brutal. Especially after getting shortlisted, when I start picturing it and when the rejection comes. That part really stings.

TV industry’s best-kept secret that would make people go “No way!”?

People think it’s all about nepotism, but honestly there are so many people out there who are actually giving opportunities to non-repo kids. Talent is getting noticed!

Can we expect to see you on the big screen soon?

Hoping, hoping, hoping! I’ve already shot a film with Sanjay Mishra, sir, and if all goes well, it should release this year. Fingers crossed!

Dream collab alert—who’s that one director or actor on your “must work with” vision board?

I really, really want to work with Aamir Khan, sir. Whether it’s under his direction or sharing the screen with him, any opportunity to work with him would be a dream come true.

What is the life motto you swear by?

Be happy and give my parents the life they’ve always dreamed of. Everything I do is for them.

What is the perfect role you would want to play?

I really want to dive into serious, lived-in roles—something intense and raw that will truly let me explore the character’s depth and emotions.

Where can fans follow your journey?

Instagram, of course!