Want my second project to be equally meaningful: 'Guilty' actor Akansha Ranjan Kapoor

Actor Akansha Ranjan Kapoor, who made her debut with Netflix original "Guilty", says she is thrilled with all the positive messages coming her way and wants her second project to be equally meaningful.

Directed by Ruchi Narain and set at the peak of India's #MeToo movement, "Guilty" explored different versions of truth that emerge when a small-town girl accuses the college heartthrob of rape.

The film, written by Kanika Dhillon and Atika Chohan, has been praised for the way it deals with prejudices against women coming forward to report cases of sexual violence against them.

"Even before 'Guilty', I wanted to do something which wasn't just fluff. Not being disrespectful, but I didn't want to be an actor who just does song and dance. I'm hoping to stick to this kind of stuff which makes an impact and do more films which speak to the audience," Akansha told PTI.

For the newcomer, landing a role in "Guilty" was a dream come true.

Akansha, who is the sister of Anushka Ranjan Kapoor and the daughter of Shashi Ranjan and Anu Ranjan, said she gave as many as 60 auditions for different projects before "Guilty" came her way.

"The first time I tested for Mukesh (Chhabra), five-six years ago, he told me I needed a lot of work to do. In my head, I grew up thinking 'I'm Kareena Kapoor' and this was a reality check. I've got no experience except for auditions.

"With auditions, you get actual feedback in perspective. You're in a tiny room with someone blankly reading your line, which you have to perform to another level. That really helps. It gives you confidence and makes you comfortable in front of the camera."
Bagging a role in "Guilty" came as a relief for Akansha "because after every audition, you feel you'll get it but then you don't."
"She said keep being punctual, kind and surrender yourself completely because those are the three things people notice about you."