Knock knock! Social Nation is back with yet another exciting episode of The Social Nation Show, streaming on Spotify and YouTube, produced by the industry leaders at Pod.One. Join us as we explore the personal and professional journeys of your favourite creators, offering an unfiltered look at the heart of the Indian creator economy. For our eleventh episode, we had a tête-à-tête with Indian actress & YouTube star Anushka Kaushik!
Also Read: Meet Hanumankind: Indian Rap Sensation Who Broke The Internet With ‘Big Dawgs’
Episode 11
So far we have discovered the personal & professional life of various creators including, Zephytone, Vanika Sangtani, Shehzaan Khan & many more. Up next, we have an Indian actress known for her role in various movies like Lust Stories, Ujda Chaman, and Patna Shukla, among others. From making sketches on YouTube to acing her role in Lust Stories 2, Kaushik has come a long way.
What’s In The Name?
We got to know that her actual name is/was Anushka Sharma, but a few years earlier she changed it to Anushka Kaushik. But why? Anushka shared, “My friends were naming their kids after getting married, and I was contemplating my name change. It’s been three or four years since I changed my name to avoid Virat Kohli jokes, and because people kept reintroducing me as Anushka Sharma during my first show ‘Crash Course‘.”
“I tried names like Anayata Sharma but wanted a personal touch since my name holds significance to me. I decided to keep Anushka and change my last name, Kaushik, which relates to my Gotra in Hindu tradition. However, adjusting to a new name is hard; I’ve always identified as Anushka, and it’s a name I want for life,” she further explained.
Feeling Nostalgic About That ‘First Audition’
‘Firsts‘ are always special – be it an audition, web series, or film. However, Anushka had a filmy audition story which goes like this, “My first audition is personal. In my final year of college, I had an economics exam. One of my seniors, Karan, called me about auditions for a Bollywood film with Jimmy Sheirgill and Yuvika Chaudhary.“
“I was 19 and wanted to achieve something before turning 20. I hesitated because of my exams, but Karan encouraged me, saying, “If not now, when?” I called a close friend to join me, but we ended up having a big fight about it. I was ready to leave, but I realized I couldn’t walk away from this opportunity. But after getting that role, I keep patting myself on the back for the decision not to skip it,” Anushka added.
“SP Chauhan was my first film. The first time on set, seeing the vanity vans, I felt like taking 200 pictures in front of them. It’s a beautiful journey. It’s really tough when someone shouts at you, but coming back and giving your best is what makes you, you.”
Secret Sauce For Entering The Digital Industry
Take out your notepads as these tips will be handy by Anushka Kaushik. She explained, “Regarding entering the industry, I believe aspiring actors should start with non-fictional content, like gaming or a YouTube channel. Once randomly a theater senior informed me about auditions at Old Delhi Films with Hasley India… I went there gave my shot and got selected. Those without industry contacts should keep auditioning and honing their craft.“
“On the contrary, Social media is a valuable tool for showcasing talent; how you use it can shape your success. Perform monologues online to attract attention from casting directors. While there’s no single path to the industry, even small casting directors should recognize you,” added the actress/YouTuber.
The Good & Bad Of Social Media
We asked her how social media impacts and affects your mental health & more. She responded, “Our generation is greatly affected by social media because we’re exposed to so much. Even in success or loss, we need to stay grounded. Being with yourself is essential; it helps you remain calm amid the chaos.
We’ve read so many quotes because there’s so much information available, like how a girl can cry and the next day wear makeup and be fine. Stop doing that. We need to genuinely experience both sadness and happiness. It’s a tough and tricky process,” said Anushka Kaushik.
On Her Journey From Saharanpur Till Date
“It’s been incredible. Touchwood. I recently spoke with a director who asked how long I’ve been in Bombay, and I realized it’s just been two years. He said I’m doing well, but we often overlook that success here is rare. In areas like Yari Road and Arab Nagar, many talented people are still struggling.
We should be grateful for our opportunities and hope those still trying will find their chance too. Ultimately, I’m thankful that Saharanpur happened, and then Delhi happened, and now this palm is treating me so well.”
Where Can You Watch The Social Nation Show?
The Social Nation Show will be available on all leading audio and video platforms on Social Nation’s official channels. The video podcasts will be distributed on Social Nation’s Spotify and YouTube handles, whereas the audio podcasts will also be available on Apple Podcast, JioSaavn, Amazon Music, and Gaana platforms. Catch the best moments of each episode on our Instagram and YouTube Shorts too!
Did you watch our video podcast yet? Tell us which creator would you love to see next in the comments below!
