I Have Learnt So Much In These 12 Years: Jennifer Winget

Jennifer Winget started her career as a child actor in the film Raja Ko Rani Se Pyar Ho Gaya (2000) and later did few more films and TV shows before landing a big role in Kasautii Zindagii Kay (KZK). Since then, there has been no looking back for the actor, who grew from strength to strength in shows such as Dill Mill Gayye (DMG; 2009-10), Saraswatichandra (2013–14) and the ongoing Beyhadh. On the 12th anniversary of HT Mumbai, she talks to us about her 12-year journey and the changes she sees in herself over the years.

How do you look back at the past 12 years in the film industry?

Being in the industry has taught me a lot and I have literally grown up here. Since I began working at a young age, the experiences have made me aware of my surroundings. There was a time when I was doing two serials simultaneously, which taught me not to do so. I have had a good run, touchwood.

Over the years, how do you think you have changed as a person and as an actor?

I have learnt patience on the job and also learnt acting. In the last couple of years, I have unlearnt stuff too, which one should, to grow as an actor. Every show I have done has given me something- be it a role, recognition, satisfaction or fans and well-wishers. Earlier, I used to feel a performance is about an individual as you see only the actors on TV. But over the years, I have learnt that it is teamwork. You realise that there is an entire team behind the face. The writers, directors and the rest of the team are equally important. I can’t compare the shows I have done but the appreciation and love I have got for the role in Beyhadh was unexpected. I played a negative role for the first time and yet the audiences have loved me in it. The role has paid off and as an actor it feels quite rewarding.

What were the defining moments of your career till date?

KZK got people to notice me as it was a big show and started my career as a grown-up with a bang. Later, DMG (2009-10) was the next big show for me, followed by some reality shows that I hosted and Saraswatichandra (2013–14). All of these shows have added more and more success to my story and they hold a special place in my heart. I have been very lucky to get such amazing roles working with the biggest production houses.