From young girls looking up to her for dance inspiration to women entrepreneurs resonating with her style and go-getter attitude, TV anchor Ritwika Gupta has come a long way from cameos on MTV to really nailing her social media game. She gets chatting with us.
1. When did you realise your love for anchoring?
I always loved writing and expressing. I started taking an interest in certain topics and blogged about them. With television, I got an opportunity to present various ideas on camera and interact with people. It was absolutely wonderful from the time I started hosting my first show. I have done 5 TV shows across 3 countries and each one of them has taught me to become a better writer, presenter and producer.
2. Tell us something which we don’t know about your job as a TV anchor.
Well, people think I just need to look pretty and sit in front of the camera and say my lines. That’s a big misconception. I spend hours researching, writing my own scripts and making last minute changes. I need to be mindful of pronunciations, especially names. Sometimes, the topics I talk about may not be easy breezy ones but I still need to make them sound interesting and all this, while looking presentable on camera. Post that, I have to sit through the entire episode to preview for errors before it goes live. During the lockdown, I’ve been shooting from home, setting up my own camera, lights in my living room. Being an anchor on television is not a walk in the park.
3. Is there a secret mantra you follow for social media?
(Laughs) No, I don’t really have any secret mantra to be honest. I just look at social media, especially Instagram, as an outlet to express. If you notice, my Instagram page isn’t just about lifestyle or fashion. While having a niche is good, I have not adhered to any conventional rule or formula. My Instagram page is a mixed bag of all the things I enjoy – from dance, to hosting, travel, acting and of course, beauty and fashion. I guess that’s what people find interesting.
4. How do you think social media has impacted your career?
I feel social media has made it easier to reach out to a lot more people. It has also given me the opportunity to put my work out there. I am able to create the content that I like on my own without waiting for an approval from a production house. Brands approach me directly for campaigns without having to go through a middleman or agency. I love it because now, the corporate audience recognizes me from my work as a TV anchor and on Instagram, I am known majorly among the 18-35 age group. So, I have got all sides covered!
5. Tell us what advice you’d give to someone who wants to become a social media influencer?
I believe in influencing less and inspiring more. So, my advice would be to try and find what inspires you. Find your own voice. It is only when you understand what you like doing, you will be able to create good content and inspire others to follow you. And once you do that, you’ll be able to create an influence.
6. Do you have plans to do films or web-series?
Well, I am happy being on TV. I like the stability that television brings. But in future, I’d definitely love to be a part of good films and web shows. I also have an indie film lined up for release but got pushed due to Covid.
7. Is it difficult juggling so many things – TV & digital career, films & auditions?
I don’t think it is difficult because I do not look at them as different things. They are all extensions of my career and portfolio. Besides, I love being busy. At the end of the day, if you enjoy your work, everything falls in place.
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