From television screens and web series to South Indian cinema and international projects, actor Donal Bisht’s career trajectory reflects versatility and steady growth. Having already expanded her horizons with her Telugu film debut in M.R.P: Neekentha Naakentha, the actor opens up about her journey, her deep connection to patriotism, and the changes she hopes to see in the entertainment industry.
Reflecting on her transition from television to films and entering the Telugu film industry with M.R.P: Neekentha Naakentha, Donal shares her excitement about stepping onto the big screen. “I always used to feel that the big screen was calling me. It feels great that I have worked across mediums—TV, web, Telugu films, ads. It felt like everything led to another, and here I am, in films, where everyone dreams to be.”
I am from an Army background; my forefathers were in the Army. I can relate deeply to nationality and patriotism.
On her debut down South and future, she says, “I was welcomed into South cinema with an open heart. It is a big thing to be there. I have already shot for a bilingual film – Telugu and Kannada- as well as an international film in China. I am listening to a lot of narrations now. I have always challenged myself to come out of my comfort zone. To get somewhere, you need to actually lose a lot of things, so the journey is tough. As a creative person, what satisfies your heart is what is important, and that’s where I am headed.”
Coming from a family with a strong military background, Independence Day and patriotism hold a special meaning for her. “I am from an Army background; my grandfather was in the Army. I can relate deeply to nationality and patriotism—I have grown up seeing all of that.”
When asked about the true meaning of independence and how she connects with it personally, she adds, “Azaadi is about choosing what you really want. I am azaad and choose to step up in any possible way, and not settle for less. Patience and hard work will lead you to where you want to go.”
Connecting her personality to the colours of the Indian National Flag, Donal highlights the soothing purity of white. “White reflects my personality because I like peace—it is very soothing. I am peaceful inside and out. For an actor, it is good to be like a white canvas, where your director can paint you into any colour.”
When discussing small actions that could contribute to the nation’s progress, she emphasises everyday civic responsibility. “Cleanliness is crucial. When Indians go abroad, they do not throw garbage on the street. Why not practice the same when staying in your home, your country? There are so many potholes and rubbish on the roads, so we really need to imbibe cleanliness.”
While Donal has played modern, empowered women throughout her career, she harbours a strong desire to portray a historical icon. “I haven’t played a character deeply connected to our nation’s history yet, but I want to play Jhansi Ki Rani. She fought for the nation with a child in her hand—she is a warrior in every sense.”
She views her profession not just as entertainment, but as a vehicle for positive social impact. “Cinema and TV are powerful tools to bring about change when used rightly. I am glad to be part of the entertainment world where I have the right to choose meaningful projects. If anyone gets inspired to be better after seeing my work, I feel truly satisfied.”
Addressing the demanding work schedules typical of Indian television and film sets, Donal stresses the necessity of streamlining working hours to prioritise health and well-being. “The entertainment industry needs shift-timing reforms. We are human beings, not superhumans who can work 15 to 16 hours every day. Our bodies need time to recover, and health is important. Work hours should be streamlined to 8–10 hours.”
She draws comparisons from her overseas and regional filming experiences, and stresses that such reforms can make the entertainment industry a better place. “When I shot in China, I saw that they worked strictly for 8 to 10 hours. Even in the South, work rarely extends beyond 12 hours. Streamlining shift timings here is essential.”
