Shweta Tripathi, the talented actress known for her diverse roles in films and web series, recently opened up about her career, thoughts on women’s empowerment, and the evolution of the film industry. From playing innocent Shalu Gupta in Masaan to the fierce Golu Gupta in Mirzapur, Shweta’s range of performances has left a mark on audiences. In a candid interview, she talked about her journey, the impact of OTT platforms, and her personal experiences growing up.
My love for Cinema Started Early
Shweta’s love for movies began in her childhood, and she credits her upbringing for it. Unlike many families where children are discouraged from watching too many films, Shweta’s family encouraged her to explore cinema. She recalled, “I was never stopped from watching movies at home. Instead, I was asked to watch them myself. My favorite movie is Veerana, and I’ve watched many films in theaters as a child.”
Her exposure to movies from a young age shaped her love for storytelling. “Whatever you are exposed to in childhood, whether it’s books, music, or movies, it reflects in the person you become,” she said. Acting had been her dream since she was young, but Shweta also juggled multiple responsibilities, including work, while following her passion.
From Theatre to Screen: The Journey
Before making a mark in films, Shweta was actively involved in theatre. She shared how theatre helped her as an actor, “Theatre is different because it allows live expression. I did theatre during my job, but it was challenging as I could only find time in the evenings. To solve this, I started ‘All My Tea Productions’ with fellow theatre artists. We rehearsed after 6 pm, once we were free from our office jobs.”
Shweta’s first significant opportunity came when she auditioned for a role in the show Kya Mast Hai Life, where she played Zenia Khan. Reflecting on that phase, she remarked, “You need to be ready for opportunities when they come. Many people work with a clear goal, but I took things as they came. I didn’t know what exactly I had to do, but I grabbed the chances I got.”
Golu Gupta: A Strong and Complex Character
One of Shweta’s most beloved roles is that of Golu Gupta in Mirzapur. Golu’s character has grown over the seasons, from a simple, bookish girl to a tough and vengeful woman. Shweta explained how she related to Golu’s transformation, “I feel bad for Golu’s character. She was once a simple girl, but circumstances forced her to change. Her sister and friend were taken away from her, and now she’s tough because she has no choice.”
Though Golu is fierce and unafraid, Shweta admitted she’s not as fearless as her on-screen character. “I wish I were as fearless as Golu. I am fearless to some extent, but not like her,” she said.
Surprisingly, despite the success of her character, Shweta hasn’t been typecast into similar roles. “I thought I would start getting roles like Golu, but that hasn’t happened. My character in Yeh Kaali Kaali Aankhein is very different. I am thankful that all the roles I’ve done so far have been unique.”
Fond Memories of Lucknow
Shweta shares a deep connection with Uttar Pradesh, especially Lucknow, where her maternal family lives. “My maternal grandmother’s house is in Hazratganj, and I spent the golden time of my childhood there,” she fondly remembered. Although her father, a retired IAS officer, was stationed outside due to his job, Shweta would visit Lucknow during holidays.
“We would roam around with our cousins, fight, and watch movies on VCR. I have so many memories attached to that place,” she shared. Shweta also recalled her love for Lucknow’s famous Galouti kebabs and Sharma’s tea, and how she would leave the city with a heavy heart after every visit.
The Rise of OTT Platforms
Shweta credits OTT platforms like Amazon Prime, Netflix, and others for transforming the entertainment industry. The rise of OTT has opened new opportunities not just for actors, but for everyone involved in filmmaking. “Mirzapur is a series that received immense love from the audience, and now we are working on its fourth season. With every season, our responsibility increases to bring something fresh to the table,” she said.
OTT platforms have broadened the horizons for artists and viewers alike. Shweta explained, “Thanks to OTT, we can now watch films from across the world while sitting in small towns like Bihar. Earlier, finding international award-winning films was tough, but now the world is at our fingertips.”
She further emphasized that art should not be restricted by language or geography. “Stories and art shouldn’t be limited by language. A good story will connect with people, no matter where it’s from,” she added.
Dream Roles and Future Aspirations
Shweta has always been drawn to strong, multi-dimensional characters, and she has a few dream roles she’s yet to explore. “I want to play the role of a teacher someday. I also wanted to be a lawyer, so if I get the chance to play a strong lawyer on screen, I would love to do it,” she shared.
She also expressed her desire to play a role in a heist story, similar to Money Heist. “I want to do a role like the professor in Money Heist. Playing these different kinds of characters is something I’m passionate about.”
Speaking Up Against Social Injustices
Beyond her acting career, Shweta is vocal about societal issues, especially the violence and injustices faced by women. She expressed her deep concern over the increasing incidents of violence against women. “The environment has changed now. Girls are coming out of their homes, taking on responsibilities, and excelling. But incidents like those in Kolkata create fear and shatter their morale.”
Shweta condemned the horrific acts of violence, stating, “The kind of incidents happening these days are beyond human comprehension. Even animals wouldn’t do such things. What’s worse is that those responsible don’t even feel ashamed.”
She believes that societal change must begin at the individual level. “We can write articles, share stories, or protest on social media, but real change will only happen when we make changes in ourselves and our homes. People are angry, but they keep blaming each other. True progress will come when we take collective responsibility.”
Shweta’s words echo the sentiment that change starts with the individual. Only by educating ourselves and our children, and by fostering respect and equality within our homes, can society truly evolve into a safer and more just place for everyone.
