For audiences, Avika Gor continues to remain synonymous with Anandi from the TV show Balika Vadhu, which she starred in at a very young age. Nearly 18 years later, she says people still address her by the character’s name — something she cherishes.

“I feel so proud. I don’t want people to stop calling me that. In an actor’s life, very few characters get the opportunity to become part of someone’s family. I love being Anandi, and I would want that till the end of time” she says.

Working as a child actor also meant there were moments when she questioned whether acting was truly what she wanted to pursue in the long term. She admits there was a phase during her college days when she consciously stepped away to reassess her priorities.

“I took a break and eventually realized that acting was what I wanted to pursue after all. People have seen my journey — from getting married on screen at an early age to now being married in real life, so having my life in the public eye doesn’t affect me,” she says.

The actress also points out that she has always tried to be honest about her struggles and beliefs. She adds, “I’ve spoken about my transformation, about hating myself and the journey of starting to like myself. I’ve rejected endorsements of products I don’t believe in. I’ve always been honest about who I am.”

Avika recently moved base from Mumbai to Bangkok with her husband, Milind Chandwani. Talking about it, she says, “We were always in a long-distance relationship while dating because of our work and studies. He received a great opportunity on the professional front, and there was no reason for us to turn it down. It was important for his growth and career, and at the same time, as newlyweds, it also gave us our space.”

While Bangkok is now home, Avika continues to travel for shoots across Mumbai, Hyderabad and other locations. “I am going to be all over,” she smiles, adding that the arrangement works because both she and Milind make conscious efforts to spend time together despite packed schedules.

“A few days ago, he surprised me by coming to Hyderabad just to spend some time together. I also like the idea of doing regular things, such as taking the metro and buying groceries in Bangkok — things that I haven’t done in Mumbai,” she says.

No relationship is perfect, and it’s okay to be messy and chaotic — as long as there is love. That’s what the Balika Vadhu and Sasural Simar Ka actor Avika Gor and Milind Chandwani have learnt from their experience on the reality show Pati Patni Aur Panga. While Gor initially hesitated to open up on camera, Chandwani embraced the chance to try something new. Set to tie the knot soon, the couple, in conversation with mid-day, talks about love, pet peeves, reality TV, and what they’ve taken away from the show. Excerpts from the interview.

Avika: Our story is rather funny. Within a week of knowing him, I was sure of him, which might seem rather weird to a lot of people, but I was sure of where my life was heading. He friend-zoned me for six months.

Milind: I wasn’t looking for something temporary or short-term. I think anything long-term deserves its own time for exploration — understanding each other, what works and what doesn’t. That’s why I told her to be friends for six months. She was helping me with my social work at that time as my NGO was scaling from three cities to 10, and Avika was monumental in that direction. It was also a way to get to know each other better. It’s been six years now, and it’s pretty permanent.

A: I’m still thinking about it because I have never agreed to appear on any reality show — I don’t like too much of my personal life going out into the public domain. I’ve been quite image-conscious. It’s something I’m still working on and learning. I still have walls up when there are cameras around, but I don’t want to disappoint people. I think I’ll be a little more diplomatic, which is something I’ve been trained to be since I was young. But seeing Milind go all out and have that conviction in our relationship and in us as individuals — that’s reaffirming. He doesn’t see flaws as flaws. He feels reality is something that will attract people to know us better and love us more. His perception is slowly changing mine. I was worried about how much they would show and what would happen. Every time I was approached for Bigg Boss, I avoided it because it meant too much information going out. But seeing him, I felt maybe it’s a fear I need to conquer. Over time, I’m learning to be real with the audience. People are curious to know who the real Avika is — this is my opportunity to connect with them.

M: I think my conviction comes from the fact that I know Avika. I feel her personality off camera is even more phenomenal. I always tell her, ‘I wish the world got to know the real Avika’. She is so much more than all her characters put together. As for me, I’m just too quirky, I like trying new things. I say yes to anything and everything that life throws my way. So, when Pati Patni Aur Panga came to us, I felt that if Avika was okay doing it, I’d be open to it. I feel the audience, who already love her, will love her even more — and maybe love this damad a little too in the process.

A: I feel I can trust the channel because I have worked with them for so long. They always respect my decision when I refuse to be part of Bigg Boss. They treat me as their own, so I have a sense of comfort with them. I feel safe with them. I feel it is a lovely bias that they treat me like their daughter.

A: I wasn’t expecting to have so much fun with everyone. I’m learning a lot about marriage on this show. Every couple is either married or has been with each other for decades, so I get to learn from their experiences.

M: What I’m enjoying on the show is the unfiltered chemistry between the couples. That’s what I’m taking away from it. It’s a powerful show — it proves that relationships don’t have to be perfect. They can be messy, chaotic, full of nok-jhoks. I’m realizing that nothing needs to be perfect as long as you can bear each other and want to wake up next to the person you love.

M: I love how kind she is — my students, NGO, and family have all witnessed it. Whenever she gets an opportunity and doesn’t pursue it, she makes sure to extend it to someone she knows would be perfect for it. That’s my favourite quality about her. I love how innocently smart she is. She has a sharp brain, it shows in how she processes information, communicates, and engages in conversation. I may be academically smart on paper, but we balance each other perfectly on the show.

A: It’s his habit to acknowledge the best parts of everything and everyone. He’s positive and has a way of seeing that in others, too. Secondly, he says yes to every new experience, no matter what the situation is.

Avika Gor, known for her role in Balika Vadhu, transitioned from a child star to a leading actress with the Telugu film Uyyala Jampala. Recently, she has garnered attention for her notable physical transformation, documented through her social media posts.

In an interview with us, the actress spoke about her fitness journey, saying, “I’ve lost a few kilos recently, or maybe more than a few. It’s been quite a rollercoaster, resisting the temptation of my favourite desserts – it feels almost like being a ninja dodging laser beams (laughs). It’s challenging; I followed a strict calorie-controlled diet and worked out regularly. Seeing my abs peek through feels very rewarding. I am enjoying this newfound love for fitness and I am truly glad I took control of my life and health before it was too late.”

Recently, the Sasural Simar Ka actress recounted a distressing incident in Kazakhstan where her bodyguard inappropriately touched her during an event. She expressed, “It’s unfortunate that incidents like these are an everyday reality for many women. It’s unacceptable and needs to stop. There was a large crowd at the event, and no one spoke our language, so I just gave him a disgusted look and moved on. I couldn’t do much there, although he apologized.”

Avika says, “There have been substantial improvements, like the diversification of roles and narratives, offering more opportunities for actors and filmmakers. However, it’s concerning that casting decisions are sometimes influenced by social media following rather than talent. While adapting to new technologies and audience dynamics is important, balancing popularity with artistic merit is crucial for maintaining the industry’s creative integrity.”

The actress emphasizes the importance of maintaining one’s appearance and physique in the entertainment industry. She explains, “In this industry, where millions are watching and looking up to you, it becomes even more crucial. It’s not just about being a role model; it’s about feeling confident in your skin. I believe in prioritizing fitness and selfcare, but not to the extent of going to extremes or compromising mental and physical well-being. Balance is key—taking care of yourself without succumbing to unrealistic expectations or unhealthy practices.”

She was the original Balika Vadhu of TV and audiences loved her portrayal of the young, innocent Anandi. But Avika Gor grew up too soon on the small screen, and at 14, she was seen playing a grown-up in Sasural Simar Ka. But that didn’t hamper her career, it actually helped her hone her craft, she says.

At 24 today, Avika is happy with the way her career has shaped up. She has made a name for herself in the Telugu film industry and is now gearing up for her Bollywood debut. She has also turned producer and is in the process of making her first South film. In a candid chat, Avika talks about her different-yet-normal childhood, her career plans and how she manages her long-distance relationship. Excerpts...

It was a conscious decision. I was doing Sasural Simar Ka when I was around 14, but I was playing a 20-year-old on the show. So, I knew that people were looking at me as a grown-up. Around that time, I was approached for a few Hindi film projects, but they were not the kind that I would want to get launched with. I decided to start with South movies and then move to Bollywood with that experience, which I felt would add value.

I have done more than 15 films in different South languages. It’s nice to see South films now getting national and international recognition. The perception of South cinema has changed, Bollywood has taken notice and also the audience. Pushpa, RRR and KGF have proven that cinema has no language barriers anymore.

The reason I did not want to take a break was because in Sasural Simar Ka, people saw me as a grown-up, so they already knew how I would look after growing up. Yes, I know some child artistes who have taken breaks and returned a few years later, but in my case, I did not want to do that. Also, I loved being on the set every day and couldn’t think of not doing that anymore! But after Sasural Simar Ka, I took a year-long break from TV before my next show, Laado. That break was mainly for me to decide what I really wanted to do in life. I learned a lot of things, from editing to directing, but I also realised that I love being in front of the camera. So, then it was just about grooming myself as an actress. I knew there was a lot I could do. In the beginning, I took things for granted, but later, when I started to work on myself, everything changed.

I am very proud of it. I remember my directors telling me to stand in a certain way because I should look like a grown-up. That’s when I learnt that as an actor, you have to do different things for a character. I have never gone to an acting school, so these shows were like an acting school for me. The space and the dedication TV actors and writers have is amazing. When I do films now, if the team asks me to stay a bit longer and complete a shoot, I totally understand that.

There were times when I felt that way, but within a day or two, I would be fine. I remember once I wanted to go for a night’s stay at a friend’s place and my mom let me go. That made me feel that I was like any other girl my age. Even now, I do a lot of regular things, but at the same time, I also get to do a lot of different things, like I have been travelling for a month. I don’t think anybody my age would be able to do that.

I had people approaching me for work and everything was fine, but I wasn’t happy. I wasn’t comfortable in my skin. Then I worked on myself and began losing those extra kilos. I started feeling more confident and realised that I could be the best version of myself. I was cribbing because I wasn’t trying enough. So, I tried my best and I’m proud that I did not give up during that period. The moment I started working on what was bothering me, I realised that I really like myself and this is one thing that I am doing for myself.

This film has a story and a character which every actor dreams of! It’s challenging. People in the South appreciate my script selection. Mahesh Bhatt has written this film and Vikram Bhatt is producing it, so there was no reason to not accept such a good offer. I am in talks for more films now.

Being an actor has made me a better producer. I know how much hard work goes into making a movie. So I think in my case, it’s a good combination, and I am happy doing what I am.

I remember telling Milind that I wanted to get married on the second day that I met him. That’s the kind of restless person I am. He is very sensible. He is not from the industry. Ours is a long-distance relationship, but we make sure to take out time for our holidays. That’s how we manage our relationship.

Avika Gor sits before us for this interview sans makeup, and in a sleeveless top. Both, she says, are “accomplishments” that make her proud. Not too long ago, she would wake up each morning with “a frown on my face” owing to her poor fitness levels — a constant reminder of the fact that her body was no longer capable of doing the things that it could.

Gor had been a dancer since the age of four. But Indian television’s blue-eyed girl, caught in the daily rigmarole of filming a series, found her fitness routine taking a back seat. “[Being overweight] didn’t affect the work that came my way. I got [the series] Laado when I was at my heaviest, that is 74 kilos. I was also working in south Indian films, where I usually bagged the part of a chubby girl,” says the actor, asserting that while she did not want to take her success for granted, she had delayed addressing her fitness needs.

“I would often cry, and was unhappy with how I treated food. I was consuming only junk food. That I was getting roles that were all too similar also affected me. I wanted to do exciting roles, and I wanted people to know that there was more to me than they thought.” The revelation of her physical shortcomings following her participation in a stunt-based reality show served as the final jolt.  

Over 90 to 120-minute routines, Gor addressed her physical fitness. “I did weight-training, cardio and pilates. I’d mix it up with bouts of dancing, and boxing.” Gor never faltered on her 15,000-steps-a-day deal. On set, while wearing makeup, and in her character’s attire, she’d strut around to clock in the number on her smart-watch. “People really underestimate walking”. 

Unwilling to negotiate with her eating habits at 22, Gor chose to train harder instead. “It was a slow process. Often, I would lose patience. When I’d hit a plateau, I’d make small tweaks, like eat millets instead of rice, or exercise harder.”

Adding fruits to her diet not only fixed her skin concerns, but also helped alleviate gastric issues linked with weight-loss. In stark contrast with the kind of roles that were offered to her, Gor is now approached for parts related to action and dance. “These roles are more glam; ones that need me to be in western-wear or swimsuits. I was offered such parts in the past as well, but I am confident about pulling them off, only now. Perhaps, because people can see that I am open to doing them, they are approaching me more often.” 

Gor has successfully negotiated her weight-loss journey, but it is easy to see that she hasn’t come out unscathed. She counts Indian viewers among those who have contributed to the need to rope in glamorous actors. She expresses gratitude to Yami Gautam for shattering beauty perceptions. “She is supposed to be the icon of beauty, and when she talks of her skin issue [Keratosis Pilaris] with such confidence, then a person like me, who also battles the same condition, is inspired.” 

She also believes that the body-positivity movement needs to be better comprehended. “Many people can’t lose weight due to medical conditions. It is not easy. But, those who can, should address their weight concerns. We can’t tell [overweight] people to accept their bodies in the name of body positivity. [Had I taken their advice] I would not have been able to achieve what I have. I wouldn’t have taken care of my health. You need to see what you can make [of yourself]. I was so proud to be in fitness magazines. I never knew I could be there.”

Avika Gor, who started as a child artiste on TV in the show Balika Vadhu has been in the news in recent times, after she refused to endorse fairness creams. “Unfortunately, we have been fed the wrong notion when it comes to the idea of an ideal beauty standard. Over the years, we have seen many advertisements where being fair is considered to be beautiful and I have never been comfortable with this idea, as your skin tone cannot determine your talent. As an actor, it was a conscious decision to not degrade anyone, but to send out the right message. Beauty is all about being comfortable and happy in your skin,” says Avika. In a candid chat with BT, the actress also spoke about how her life has transformed in the recent times, especially after meeting the love of her life, Milind Chandwani.

The actress surprised many with her transformation last year; she says it wasn’t an easy journey though. Avika says, “There was a time when I was appreciated for my work but I still doubted my talent, felt ugly and didn’t like what I saw in the mirror. I couldn’t figure out where I was going wrong and it took me two-three years to get rid of my weight. Initially, I would become very impatient as I wanted instant results and would be left disappointed. But the day I shifted my perspective, it all changed. I started working out, eating right and kept myself mentally happy. Along with my body, I also had to train my mind to be patient and persistent. Slowly, I started pushing my limits and was amazed by the remarkable results.”

Bollywood is on Avika’s mind, but she says before that she would like to pick up the relevant experience, and hence is currently focussing on Telugu films. She says, “Telugu cinema experiments a lot with content and this has definitely helped me in becoming a better actor.” Avika adds, “I was offered my first Telugu film Uyyala Jampala in 2013 when I was shooting for Sasural Simar Ka. Initially, there was a language barrier and working in a new environment was difficult. However, when I saw the result, I was very happy. After my last movie in 2019, I shot for a few films, which are ready for release.”

Avika and Milind Chandwani (he appeared on Roadies Real Heroes in 2019 and runs an NGO in Hyderabad) made their relationship public last year, and since then, they have never shied away from expressing affection for each other on their social media handles. “Milind holds a very important place in my life. He has really helped me to evolve as a person. He makes me feel very special,” she says. Is there a wedding on the cards? “Milind and I are very spontaneous individuals. When we decided to make our relationship official, we didn’t give it much thought. We both were very sure of each other. Just like that, when we are ready to settle down, we will just do it and surprise everyone,” she signs off.

Avika Gor has literally grown up on Indian television. The actress, who first struck a chord with the audience as the child bride, Anandi in Balika Vadhu, has worked almost non-stop in television and films. Ask the 23-year-old if she regrets working without a break, and she replies, “I did take a break for about a year in 2017 after my stint on Sasural Simar Ka ended and before taking up Laado 2 - Veerpur Ki Mardani. It was because I wanted to be sure if I really wanted to act, as back then I seemed more inclined towards dancing and direction. During the transformation phase, too, I had considered taking a long break before returning as a totally new person. However, I am glad I didn’t do that, as that would have affected my connection with the audience .”

She insists that despite working continuously, she didn’t miss out on a normal childhood. “Success so early on in life can get to your head, but fortunately, I have been surrounded by people, especially my parents, who have kept me grounded. I never felt that I missed out on a normal childhood as I attended school as well as did what I liked — acting and dancing,” she shares.

Meanwhile, Avika has lost 13 kilos in the last few months. However, she says that for her, the transformation has been more internal than external.

She explains, “Physical transformation happened because I focussed on changing from within. Television had made me extremely comfortable with being in the spotlight. I somehow felt that even though I was not giving my 100 per cent, people still loved me. I had this perception that people liked me the way I was, so there was no need to do anything extra. I was doing good professionally, but I wasn’t happy. The reason was that I wasn’t giving my 100 per cent, not just physically, but mentally as well. For instance, I used to attempt screenplay writing, but then, I stopped paying attention to it. However, on my birthday (June 30), it struck me that I owe my audience my 100 per cent.”