Actor Nandani Tiwary, who essays the role of Mansi in Zee TV‘s Tumm Se Tumm Tak, produced by Studio LSD, has gained attention for her impactful screen presence. Coming from a small town and carving her space in a competitive industry, she reflects on fame, personal growth, and staying true to herself.

Speaking about dealing with fame and public attention, Nandani shares, “I think this is for what I came into this industry. I feel it’s a blessing of God that a girl from a small town like Jamshedpur is now recognised wherever she goes. People click selfies to keep memories, and there are fan pages. For me, this is something I always dreamt of, and now I am getting it.”

On what keeps her motivated during tough times, she says, “As my mom says, every day teaches you a new lesson for life. Especially during tough times, I know this phase is going to teach me something good for my future. It is just a matter of time.”

Interestingly, Nandani reveals she does not allow self-doubt to creep in. “No, as a person, having self-doubt anytime during your career will not let you survive in this cut-throat competitive industry. That’s why I stay fully confident, and that helps me in my work, personal life, and in being a good human being,” she explains.

Maintaining a balance between personal and professional life is something she prioritises. “I have always kept my personal and professional life separate from day one. My character, Mansi, is negative, while I am completely the opposite. If I don’t disconnect, it will become difficult for me to manage my real-life surroundings,” she says.

She credits her family and close ones for keeping her grounded. “They are my support system. They guide me at every point in life and help me stay grounded. Coming from a non-filmy background, I have learned always to stay rooted, as my family has taught me.”

When it comes to criticism, Nandani takes it in stride. “I always take criticism positively, as it helps me enhance myself and work harder. Social media comes with both sides. When audiences criticise me as a negative character, it actually means I am doing justice to my role.”

Her approach to self-care is simple yet consistent. “My formula is to work on my craft daily. That keeps you loved by the audience for whom you are giving your 100 per cent. I keep working on my craft every single day,” she shares.

While she does not follow strict affirmations, she relies on physical and mental wellness practices. “Hitting the gym, meditation, and alternate-day yoga keep me boosted and energetic,” she says.

On ensuring her work does not overshadow her identity, she adds, “In this industry, the biggest achievement is when people recognise you by your character. If people know you as Mansi instead of Nandani, it means your character has found space in their hearts. Eventually, your identity follows.”

Summing up the biggest lesson fame has taught her, Nandani concludes, “Fame is the result of your hard work and dedication to your craft. The moment you stop working on it, it can fade away. Gaining fame is beautiful, but maintaining it is the real task, and I am ready to give my 1000 per cent because I truly love this journey.”