Dussehra is a festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil. For Chumbak actor Delnaaz Irani, the occasion is a reminder that life comes with its share of challenges, but what matters is how one deals with them. Known for her work across television, films and theatre, Delnaaz has seen different phases in her career and personal life, each teaching her something along the way.
Talking about the changes she has made in herself over the years, Delnaaz says, “I think I have learnt to stop taking everything to heart. Earlier, I would think a lot about what people said or how they behaved with me. With time, I have realised that you cannot please everyone, and you don’t have to explain yourself to everybody. I have become more accepting of people and situations. I still feel things deeply, but I have learnt to let go and protect my peace.”
Speaking about a challenge that changed her outlook on life, she shares, “Life has taught me that you have to be strong even when things don’t go as planned. There are personal and professional phases when you feel uncertain about what lies ahead. I have had my own share of such moments, and they have made me more independent. You realise that you have to pick yourself up, keep working and find happiness in the little things. I think every difficult phase teaches you something about yourself.”
When asked which value she feels people should bring back, Delnaaz says, “I would say kindness. I feel people have become so busy with their own lives that they sometimes forget to be kind to others. A small gesture, a few good words or simply being there for someone can make a big difference. You never know what another person is going through. We don’t always have to agree with everyone, but we can still be respectful and kind.”
As an actor, Delnaaz has played different kinds of characters over the years. Talking about whether such roles have changed her understanding of human behaviour, she says, “As actors, we get to explore different kinds of people through our characters. Nobody is completely good or completely bad in real life. Sometimes, a person’s circumstances or experiences influence the way they behave. Playing different characters helps you look at people from different perspectives. You may not agree with what a character does, but understanding the reasons behind their behaviour is a part of the job.”
On staying grounded as her career continues to grow, Delnaaz shares, “I have always believed in being myself. This industry can be unpredictable, and you may be doing well one day and waiting for work another day. You have to understand that your work does not define your entire identity. I am grateful for the opportunities I have received, and I try to treat people with the same warmth and respect, whether they are senior actors, newcomers or people working behind the scenes. For me, that is what really matters.”
Reflecting on the biggest battle she feels she has won in life, she adds, “I think the biggest battle is learning to stand on your own feet emotionally and not let difficult situations break you. Life doesn’t always turn out the way you imagine it, but you have to find the courage to move ahead. I have learnt to accept things, make peace with the past and look forward to what is coming next. I think being able to smile, laugh and continue enjoying life despite its ups and downs is a victory in itself.”
