Anjali Anand Reveals Why She Never Used Her Father Dinesh Anand’s Name in Bollywood: “I’m Building My Own Legacy”

Actress Anjali Anand has opened up about her journey in the entertainment industry and explained why she never relied on her late father Dinesh Anand’s name to find opportunities in Bollywood. Despite coming from a family with a connection to the film and television world, Anjali says she always wanted her work and talent to define her identity rather than her surname.

In a recent conversation, Anjali was asked about her father Dinesh Anand, who was a familiar face in Indian cinema and television, with appearances in popular projects including Mahabharat and several films. When asked if she drew inspiration from his career, Anjali admitted that while she has heard many stories about him, she has not personally watched much of his work.

"People say things about Dad all the time, though I haven't watched much of his work myself," Anjali said. Reflecting emotionally on his legacy, she added, "I am building my own legacy; if Dad were here, he might have been the one sitting here, giving interviews. Who knows? He might have become a huge star—even bigger than he was."

The actress further shared that she believes her own success could be a continuation of her father's unfinished dreams. "So, I feel that perhaps their daughter will reach the heights they couldn't. Who knows?" she said, expressing her admiration for her father's journey while focusing on creating her own path.

Addressing conversations around nepotism in the entertainment industry, Anjali explained that very few people even know about her family background. She said she never felt the need to highlight her father's name to gain an advantage. "Honestly, hardly anyone even knows whose daughter I am. Very few people know. But I never felt the need to use that connection," she revealed.

The actress explained that using her father's name would not automatically guarantee a long and successful career. "He isn't around anymore, so what’s the point of using his name? And what would I really achieve by using it? I might land a project—but what more than that?" Anjali said.

According to Anjali, long-term success in the entertainment industry comes down to dedication, ability, and consistency. "Ultimately, it comes down to your own hard work. I’ve relied on my own effort and capability from the start, and I’ll continue to do so," she stated.

She also pointed out that even people with famous family backgrounds can struggle to find work, proving that a name alone cannot guarantee success. "There are people with huge names sitting at home without work. It’s fine. Sitting at home isn't a bad thing; even 'work from home' is a reality now," she said.

Anjali even quoted superstar Shah Rukh Khan while sharing her thoughts on success and productivity. "As Shah Rukh Khan said, 'Those who do nothing often do amazing things,'" she added.

Anjali Anand has steadily built her own identity in the entertainment industry through television, web series, and films. She made her acting debut with the web series Untag in 2017 before gaining recognition with shows like Dhhai Kilo Prem and the popular television drama Kullfi Kumarr Bajewala. Her transition into Bollywood gained attention with her role as Gayatri Randhawa (Golu) in Karan Johar’s Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani.

The actress has also impressed audiences with performances in streaming projects including Raat Jawana Hai and Dabba Cartel. Known for her confidence, versatility, and outspoken views on body positivity and industry expectations, Anjali has created a space for herself beyond conventional stereotypes.

Currently, Anjali Anand is receiving attention for her role in the comedy-adventure film Dhamaal 4, where she stars opposite Riteish Deshmukh. Her appearance in the Hindi version of the viral song "Gulabi Sadi" alongside Deshmukh also generated significant buzz online during the film’s promotional campaign. Through her journey, Anjali Anand continues to prove that while family legacy can be a part of an artist’s story, personal talent, determination, and hard work remain the strongest foundations for building a lasting career.