Ananya Panday says She ‘can wait’ to do Films

In a revealing statement that highlights a significant shift in Bollywood’s work culture, Ananya Panday said she “can wait” to do films.

The actress is choosing her projects with patience, a quality that once seemed rare in the industry.

In an interview with The Nod Mag, Ananya explained her approach:

“I don’t want to do a film just because I have time.

“My dad’s generation had to do that, because that’s how the system worked then.

“They had to work two or three shifts a day, sometimes just because they had a personal equation with someone. But now I feel like I can wait.”

Her words draw a clear line between old and new Bollywood.

In the past, actors juggled multiple projects at once, with tight schedules and little choice.

Now, streaming platforms and the internet have shifted power toward content-driven stories.

For younger stars like Ananya Panday, the luxury lies in picking roles that truly matter rather than filling time.

Since her debut in Dharma Productions’ glossy Student of the Year 2 in 2019, Ananya has built a filmography that blends commercial entertainers with more layered work.

The 26-year-old has appeared in hits such as Pati Patni Aur Woh and Dream Girl 2, while also testing herself in streaming titles like Gehraiyaan and Kho Gaye Hum Kahan.

Kho Gaye Hum Kahan resonated strongly with Gen Z audiences thanks to its take on social media and modern relationships.

Her embrace of OTT projects shows a willingness to push past Bollywood’s traditional mould.

But Ananya’s career remains tied to the conversation around nepotism.

As the daughter of Chunky Panday, she has carried the “nepo baby” label since her debut.

The nepotism debate has centred around star kids being selected for opportunities over newcomers, regardless of acting talent.

And while Ananya’s surname presented her with visibility, the real test is staying power.

Ananya is aware of the scrutiny, moving from glossy debuts to more layered roles in films like Gehraiyaan.

With every performance, “nepo babies” like her face tougher judgment than outsiders.

Her challenge now is less about entry and more about proving she belongs, through range, connection with audiences, and convincing performances.

Away from the spotlight of serious debates, Ananya has shown she knows how to have fun with her public persona.

Recently, she congratulated Aryan Khan for the success of his directorial debut, The Ba***ds of Bollywood.

Sharing childhood photos of them together, she wrote:

“These little boys have done such BIG things lately. Couldn’t be prouder.”

Aryan replied: “Special thanks for everything.”

Talk has turned to the possibility of a second series and Ananya seemingly hinted that she would be in it:

“Ready for my role in season 2 now.”

Whether the Netflix show is renewed for season two and whether it features Ananya remains to be seen, but it has added to the buzz around the actress’ next move.

For Ananya Panday, patience is proving more than a virtue; it is a strategy. In an industry once driven by relentless hustle, she is carving space to make choices on her own terms.