From Gwalior to Mumbai and now Hyderabad, actor Anamika Tommar has lived many lives — computer engineer, artist manager, actor, model, and content creator. But through every shift in location and identity, one thing has remained constant: her hunger to live a life built on authenticity and purpose.
After managing big artists and working behind the scenes, Anamika finally stepped into the spotlight. Today, with projects like Vargmool, Sarfira, and a major Telugu pan-India film, she’s proof that reinvention is not just possible — it’s powerful.
In this exclusive HerInfluence interview, Anamika opens up about her root-shaping years, her leap of faith into acting, and the mindset that keeps her grounded through the hustle.
Q1: From Gwalior to Mumbai and now Hyderabad — how has each city shaped you as an actor and as a person?
Anamika: My roots are in Gwalior, but I’ve honestly lived a very travelling life. Childhood for me was Gujarat, Maharashtra, MP, UP, Rajasthan, Punjab… so many places. Adaptability became second nature. I picked up different cultures, different mindsets, even different dialects — a little Haryanvi, a little Punjabi — and all of that helps me so much as an actor today.
Mumbai, though, truly shaped me. That city changed my life. The hustle, the grit, the madness — it injects something into your system. A big part of who I am comes from Mumbai.
And now Hyderabad has brought balance into my life. It has made me calmer, wiser, more patient. The slower pace gives me room to breathe and think clearly. Each city contributed something essential to the actor and the person I am today.
Q2: You began as a computer engineer, then moved into artist management before finally embracing acting. What was the turning point?
Anamika: (laughs) I became a computer engineer purely for my father — the classic “beta, degree le lo” story. I got the degree… and I ran!
I moved to Mumbai to act, but the city felt overwhelming at first. I had to survive, so I slipped into artist management — and honestly, I loved it. The travel, the concerts, the energy. But somewhere I knew: I didn’t come to Mumbai for this.
Acting was always the thing that made me feel alive. The turning point was when I asked myself one uncomfortable question:
“If I don’t try now, will I regret this forever?”
The answer was yes. And that’s when I finally chose acting with full commitment. Today, I know this is my purpose — this is what my soul came here to do.
Q3: You’ve managed major artists like Amit Trivedi. How did that behind-the-scenes experience shape your understanding of the industry?
Anamika: Managing artists gave me a deep respect for creation. I saw the rush they feel on stage, the connection with audiences, the adrenaline. That magic is incomparable.
Watching them, I realised:
I don’t just want to witness creation — I want to create.
I wanted to feel that high, that energy, that exchange. That understanding came only because I lived the industry from the other side.
Q4: Your upcoming Hindi film Vargmool is already creating curiosity. What can you tell us about the role and the experience?
Anamika: Vargmool has been a long and beautiful journey. We started in 2022 and shot in Buxar, Banaras, and Mumbai — three completely different energies that shaped the story in unique ways.
My character is strong-headed yet vulnerable. She knows what she wants, she loves deeply, but she’s torn between her family and her partner. That emotional conflict makes her very real and relatable.
And the team — I can’t praise them enough. When you see everyone working with that kind of passion, it pushes you to give your absolute best.
Q5: You’re also shooting a major Telugu pan-India film. How different is the experience compared to Hindi cinema?
Anamika: Telugu cinema is a completely different world — different life experiences, cultural references, storytelling styles. Both industries are incredible, but they function with different energies.
The Telugu project I’m part of is massive — huge production, incredible superstars. It can feel overwhelming, but in the best possible way. I’m learning so much every day, and I’m genuinely excited for everything this film is going to teach me.
Q6: You were part of Akshay Kumar’s Sarfira. What was it like working on such a high-powered set?
Anamika: It was unforgettable. A lot of credit goes to Sudha Kongara ma’am — she is an extraordinary director and an extraordinary human being. She treats every actor with equal respect, no matter who you are.
Akshay Kumar sir was equally amazing — grounded, warm, and so supportive. Watching him act was like attending a masterclass live. I felt seen, guided, and valued. I’ll always be grateful for that experience.
Q7: Your recent ads with Bharat Matrimony and Spice Money were a hit. How do you approach commercials differently from films?
Anamika: Commercials are so much fun! They’re usually one-day shoots with playful energy and quick storytelling.
The Spice Money ad was especially funny because people started calling me “Bhanu” everywhere after it went viral! Ads have this beautiful, instant connection with the audience, and I really enjoy that.
Q8: You’ve lived many creative identities — engineer, manager, actor, model, creator. How do you stay true to yourself through all these transitions?
Anamika: I think I manage it because I’m authentic in every space I step into. I don’t perform off-camera. I show up as myself — always. And people can sense honesty.
Also, my friends and my sisters keep me grounded. Their support keeps me centred, no matter what role I’m playing professionally.
Q9: The entertainment world demands constant hustle and reinvention. What mindset keeps you grounded and motivated?
Anamika: I want this life badly enough to ignore the noise. That’s my truth.
Rejection is hard. Reinvention is hard. Dreams are hard. But I enjoy the journey — the struggle, the learning, the small wins.
Meditation and fitness keep me anchored. And my vision for my future keeps me moving forward, no matter how tough the day is.
Q10: What advice would you give to young dreamers from smaller towns who want to make it big in cinema?
Anamika: Don’t shy away from hard work. Dreams look glamorous, but they are built on discipline and consistency.
And don’t be insecure about where you come from. Cinema is one of the most inclusive spaces I’ve seen. It doesn’t care about caste, language, background — it cares about your truth and your dedication.
If you believe in your dream and you’re willing to work for it,
there is space for you. Truly.
✨ HerInfluence Note:
From Gwalior’s quiet beginnings to Mumbai’s unstoppable hustle and Hyderabad’s grounded calm, Anamika Tommar has built a journey defined by courage, reinvention, and clarity of purpose. Her story is a reminder that dreams don’t come from perfect beginnings — they come from brave decisions.
