Igniting one’s own lamp

‘When in doubt, listen to the bray of your heart’ is how GitikkaGanjuDhar can be better explained. The Indian Statement had the privilege of interviewing her right before her big debut on the silver screen.

1. You’re one of the most celebrated Emcee’s in the country today, Where did your journey begin?

I wanted to work in film industry, as a creative hand, as an actor. I often thought of trying my hand at interior decoration, being a Chef, being a dancer, I think for a few years I wanted to join politics too. I was a regular at debating in school and college, was lucky to bring home a medal or two, but in my mind, public speaking was not even an option as a career. As a child, I was painfully shy and lacking confidence. I was also a rebel without a cause and dreamy to a fault. Day dreaming was my favourite pastime. Mine is a classic case of destiny taking charge because in all the dreams I dreamt of as a child about a million things I wanted to be, I never ever dreamt of being an anchor. I still find it difficult to believe that I made it so far. The universe conspired and all that jazz! Our college, the A.K.J. Institute of Mass Communication in Delhi had these massive studios which professional producers would hire for shoots. One of them offered me a television show, to host. So actually, I started my career in talk with television. I then got a call from Magnum Nexus, a leading event management agency of the time who was handling Honda’s presence at the Auto Expo. I was auditioned and selected as one of the two main anchors of the seven day event. So, yes, technically I did not struggle. I was paid well. I decided to venture further, spent a few years mulling and musing over the decision. Meanwhile the industry started calling and work began pouring in. I had taken off before I even knew it, even before I was fully sure that this is what I wanted to do. If there ever was an accidental anchor, it is me, it is me!

2. You have worked with all the leading Corporate Industries in the country. Have you ever felt the effect of Glass ceiling?

No, never. Infact, for many years, I would often hear the male hosts complain that the number and kind of opportunities they got were far less and not as good as the female live hosts in India.

I know I have an equal standing as a professional female host vis-a-vis my male colleagues. It has always been this way in my case. But yes, I have felt the effect of fragile male egos on the client’s side. At times I have dealt with it, with dignity and social skill; at times I have chosen not to work in such an environment.

3. You’ve mentioned that your daughter is your inspiration in your past interviews. Would you like to throw some light on that?

Well, inspiration to live, laugh and enjoy every moment of life, for sure. She is my daughter, but her general demeanor is very different from mine.

She has played a big role in getting me to unwind and just chill, because that is how she is. Her goal, forever, is to enjoy the moment. My goals were generally, to build for the future.  I am wiser now. Music and dance have made their way back into my life. I have opened up and pushed myself to make friends again. I try and enjoy the moment now.

Something like what Henry David Thoreau had said – You must live in the present, launch yourself on every wave, and find your eternity in each moment. She has taught me that.

4. Do you long for Kashmir being a Kashmiri Pandit? Would you like to opine on the abrogation of Article 35A and 370?

I welcome the abrogation of Article 370. It was long overdue. I applaud the present government for the step and hope that this will be a new sunrise for the people of Kashmir who have seen nothing but strife and tragedy over the last few decades. I also hope it will pave the way for the return of Kashmiri Pandits to the valley. A homecoming long due. I condemn some sections of international media, with vested interests for painting a wrong picture. Most of us Kashmiri Pandits long to have homes in Kashmir. It is a very beautiful, ethereal and captivating land. And, it cannot be explained in words, many Kashmiris would feel it, a whiff of the scent of the air and you know you are home. This is where your soul came from; this is where it will want to go back to.

5. You have signed a movie with Aamir Khan Productions. What was the driving force behind you choosing to take up acting?

I have had the good fortune of signing on as a part of the cast in Aamir Khan Production’s Lal Singh Chaddha and am delighted to work with the man himself, someone I consider a school on filmmaking, Aamir Khan. Just like with anchoring, I did not plan my foray into acting. It just happened. I always wanted to act, to be an actor on big screen. But, my career as a Live Host has been all-engrossing and very rewarding for so many years that I never felt anything amiss. Vis-a-vis acting, it is time to learn, absorb and flow. I want to enjoy this new journey like a child in wonderland.

6. Your Saree Fridays are a hit out there. What do you love the most about Saree as an attire?

Thank you, yes, my Saree Soirees posts do move well. The fact that it hides me well!!! Jokes apart, our colors, our patterns, our textures, our craft, our drapes are the most beautiful.  Every woman looks good in a saree, and I certainly got it easy. My mother often says to me – When you need to look your best, just wear a saree. Let me add to that, when in doubt also, I wear a saree. I have too many in my closet. Many that I have inherited from my mother and grandmothers, many that I am saving for my daughter. And yes, it is a dream to travel and explore the saree route in India, later some time in life, maybe even film a series on it.

7. You are an avid reader. Please share with our readers some of your favorite reads.

Right now I am in the middle of reading all of SudhaMurty’s books written for children. The sheer simplicity of her thought bowls me over.

8. What is the one thing you would like to tell the young girls out there, who have been trying to accomplish their goals?

Work hard and do not let anyone tell you that you cannot do it. Follow your inner voice. Be a good human. Be kind. Stay humble. Have a higher purpose. And don’t forget to live life along the way.