Self-realization, at times, takes time. The same thing happened to Megha Ray. From being a brilliant student to becoming an engineer, having a job that pays well before resigning to pursue a career as a full-time actor, Her life could be the basis for a compelling film script. The actress, who plays Radhika in the production Sapnon Ki Chhalaang, produced by Nilanjana Purkayasstha and Herumb’s Invictus T Mediaworks, talks about her journey to becoming an artist.

I’m from a place where everyone is involved in Education, but no one has any connection to the field. However, I realized that I’d regret not having to speak up. I was not interested in more advanced studies such as the MBA that was expected of me. I said that this was the direction I’d like to pursue. My parents were shocked, but I knew what I wanted to do. I slowly built it up and didn’t make a big deal in one go. I made sure that the result was that I didn’t overburden them. I also was doing fashion blogging during weekends and making income from it. I left the job after it was secure, and I earned cash from brand advertising,” she adds.

Being a newcomer to the scene, it was a challenge. Megha knew this and prepared her for the most difficult situations. This process of thinking helped.

I’d glance at the long lines for auditions held in Aram Nagar; your makeup is smeared with sweat when you get to the audition. It cannot be easy when you’re going to audition because you don’t know what’s expected. I once heard that I was selected to play the role of the main character; however, when I got to the stage, I was surprised to learn that the script had been changed,” she shares.

It was not the first, and neither was it the final. It was quite funny because I didn’t quit my job, but I was offered a tiny part on the assumption that I might not even be seen. The company was a huge name, and I wondered how it performed. I’d never even seen cameras in action or even any set. I realized then that I may have been underestimating myself. I should not accept anything. I decided to take on things that I felt about. In about a month, I auditioned for a show on TV for the first time, and I was successful,” she adds.

To those who dream of acting, Megha urges them to complete their studies first, especially if money is not a problem. Megha explains the reason, “Education is not just about traditional subjects. It can be any area that you are interested in. If it’s acting, staying informed and aware of different performance styles is important. I guarantee you that you will enter the stage with confidence and knowledge. Complete comprehensive training will allow you to communicate better when on set. Everybody should be educated as much as they can manage.”