Neha Sargam opens up on fame after Mirzapur 3: ‘People overlook that I’ve been working for 13 years’ | Web Series
Introduction
From the heights of popularity to the depths of obscurity, the world of web series is known for its unpredictability. Actors, too, have to navigate this choppy ride, dealing with the ebbs and flows of fame. One such actor, Neha Sargam, is no exception. With her latest role in the critically acclaimed web series Mirzapur 3, she has become a household name. However, behind the scenes, there are stories of her struggles, perseverance, and unwavering dedication. In this exclusive interview, Neha opens up about her journey, the highs and lows, and her priorities as an actor.
On Life After Mirzapur 3
The third installment of the show, which premiered last year, may have marked the demise of Neha Sargam’s character, but it also cemented her status as a breakout star. Despite being part of an ensemble cast boasting heavyweights such as Pankaj Tripathi, Ali Fazal, Divyendu Sharma, Vijay Varma, and Shweta Tripathi, Neha left an indelible mark on viewers.
"Yes, I was also a part of Mirzapur 2, and I think my character started gaining attention from that season onwards. But Mirzapur 3 brought a wave of surprises and recognition," she tells us.
However, Neha also wonders why people tend to overlook her 13-year journey in the entertainment industry. "People often overlook the fact that I’ve been working for 13 years. Many in the Mirzapur audience might have seen my previous work and thought, ‘Yaar, ye ladki dekhi hui si lag rahi hai (We have seen her somewhere)’. I don’t want to disregard that part of my journey; I’ve worked hard for every role I’ve played. Mirzapur 3 felt like a well-earned reward for years of effort because now, even on Mirzapur posts and beyond, people recognize me for my earlier work as well."
Challenges and Choices
So, did the fanbase affect her approach to choosing future projects or roles?
"First, I want to express my gratitude for all the love, attention, and support. But I also recognize that these things are fleeting- ‘today, someone is popular; tomorrow, someone else will be.’ My approach to choosing work has always remained the same, regardless of the fanbase. If something doesn’t appeal to me, makes me uncomfortable, or if my instincts don’t align with it, I don’t pursue it. That is the only criterion I follow. I’ve always been selective, and that is how I approach my work," says the actor, who has also featured in shows such as Chand Chupa Badal Mein, Ramayan, and Doli Armano Ki.
The World of Theatre
Beyond her on-screen endeavors, Neha is an ardent enthusiast for the stage, actively pursuing a career as a theatre artist. This dual pursuit, she believes, has been instrumental in refining her craft as an actor.
"I have had stage fear since childhood, severe stage fear. Growing up, I never recognized it as a problem; I just avoided being on stage without questioning why. But one day, my principal insisted I participate in a competition I had been enrolled in, leaving me with no choice. I performed out of necessity, not personal desire," says Neha, who recently performed in Delhi as part of the final season of Mughal-e-Azam: The Musical in Delhi.
"It was only while doing Mughal-e-Azam that I truly realized my fear of the stage. I couldn’t even share it with the team because I was not sure how they would react. But through the Mughal-e-Azam journey, I overcame it. However, even now, I feel a slight nervousness, but it has transformed into something positive, an energy that fuels my performance. The theatre has given me confidence. It has made me more aware of my body and how to use it in my performance. In acting, every part of you, from head to toe, must embody the character, and theatre has truly helped me achieve that," she adds.
Theatre vs. Television
For Neha Sargam, the realm of theatre is in a league of its own, defying comparison to the worlds of television or cinema.
"One thing about performing on stage is that the dimensions change; you are exposed from every angle. Unlike film or television, where the camera frames you, on stage, you must engage the audience directly. However, there is always an invisible barrier, whether it is the camera in front of you or an imaginary wall on stage," she says, adding, "Another key difference in theatre is how awareness shifts with the medium. The fundamentals of acting remain the same, but adjustments in volume, intensity, and delivery happen based on the scene’s requirements rather than the medium itself."
Upcoming Projects
For now, Neha is busy with the theatre production Mughal-e-Azam The Musical, which is directed by Feroz Abbas Khan. This year, the musical traveled to cities such as Delhi and Mumbai. It is produced by Deepesh Salgia, under the aegis of Shapoorji Pallonji.
"For now, I am focused on the present. I was really excited about the Mughal-e-Azam season in Delhi, as we returned after a long time. Our previous seasons in Delhi have been incredible, and this was as thrilling," shares Neha, who is seen in the role of Anarkali in the play.
In this candid chat, Neha Sargam opens up about her journey, from overcoming her fear of the stage to her approach to choosing roles. As she navigates the ever-changing landscape of the entertainment industry, Neha remains committed to her craft, seeking out new challenges and embracing the journey ahead.
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