Exclusive - Zalak Desai opens up on being part of Anupamaa; says 'When you’re surrounded by like-minded people, your energy and vibe naturally sync'

Actress Zalak Desai, who is part of Rajan Shahi’s hit TV show Anupamaa, says that she loves being part of the show. The actress adds that being on the sets is rejuvenating for her.
“A typical day for me begins at 8:30 AM, as that’s my reporting time. I get ready and go for my shot. If I’m not shooting at the moment, I relax in my makeup room, which I’ve made cozy over the first two months of being on set.We usually have lunch together or in our rooms. What drives me to the set is my love for work—I’m a workaholic. Even on my day off, I like to stay engaged in something productive, as I don’t enjoy sitting idle,” she says.
She adds that she loves spending time with people on the set. “When you’re surrounded by like-minded people, your energy and vibe naturally sync, leading to healthier discussions and a positive atmosphere. A good environment fosters creativity, keeps morale high, and ultimately reflects in our performances,” she says.
She adds, “On-screen, our characters need to exhibit a certain chemistry, and that can only come naturally when there is mutual comfort and understanding. Off-screen, having a good rapport helps in smooth collaboration, making it easier to work together and achieve the necessary give-and-take required in scenes.”
Director’s Kut Productions maintains very effective communication, she says, adding, “I appreciate their transparency. Clear communication helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures everyone is on the same page. It’s always beneficial to work in an environment where things are communicated openly, as it allows us to focus entirely on our performances.”
Meanwhile, she adds that TV shows will never lose their significance, despite OTT shows gaining prominence. “Despite the rise of OTT platforms and foreign content, TV remains a go-to comfort for audiences. The fact that movie stars come on TV shows to promote their films proves its wide reach. TV enters homes every single day, making it a strong medium that connects with people on a personal level,” she says.
She adds, “TV is evolving. While some shows still stick to traditional storytelling, others are adapting to modern narratives. For example, in Anupamaa, the characters evolve with time, reflecting changing societal dynamics. As part of this industry, we strive to be creative while also catering to the audience’s taste, which plays a crucial role in determining how content is shaped. It’s extremely important. Audiences today have diverse preferences, and it’s necessary to understand what resonates with them.While we, as creators and actors, have stories we want to tell, the way we present them must align with what the audience wants to see.”