TikTok star Sameeksha Sud discusses how her unexpected popularity on the app landed her web shows.
Sameeksha Sud
Though she started her career with television in 2012, it was Chinese app TikTok that put Sameeksha Sud on the map. The actor-social media influencer is taking her digital popularity to the next level with her digital debut series, Who’s Your Daddy? on ALTBalaji. The actor reveals the Chirag Arora directorial venture was not her only pick. “I had two offers from ALTBalaji, and wanted to do both. Observing our combined social media presence, they [the head honchos at the platform] suggested I sign Who’s Your Daddy? instead,” says Sud, who is paired opposite Bhavin Bhanushali in the series. Sud says her character, Sukoon, made the decision easier. “I am similar to Sukoon, and hence, could relate to her.”
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The actor, who enjoys a sizable fan base, says that her soaring popularity on TikTok was unexpected. “Initially, there were no avenues for monetary benefits through social media apps. I joined TikTok for fun, and never in my wildest dreams did I imagine it to blow up to this scale.”
Her journey on television, in comparison, was less than fulfilling. She describes her initial days when she struggled for work as the lowest point in her career. “I faced a lot of problems then. So much so that I would come home and cry on my mother’s lap. I thought that I was not made for this industry, but my passion was bigger than my reason to quit. Things got easier after I got a few noticeable roles.”
The actor found her feet in the industry with roles in Balveer, Doli Armaano Ki, Gumrah and Fear Files. But creative satisfaction eluded her in an industry that is quick to typecast an artiste. “After four years on TV, I took a break because I couldn’t stand doing the same roles. I was playing bhabhi roles when girls older than me were being cast for younger roles. I was never offered the parts I wanted to do. In the initial stages of your career, you cannot be too picky about the parts you play. [By the time I realised] I was being typecast, it was too late to shift [the makers’ and audience] perspectives. Since I didn’t have any financial responsibilities, it was easier to find a new direction,” she says, alluding to her stint on TikTok.
Ask her if her videos on the app was an audition tape for Bollywood, and Sud says she will be only too happy if films come knocking, but she’s not one to plan ahead. “I have never chalked out my career.”
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