I quit Sasural Simar Ka because I wanted a break: Avika Gor

She started working as an actor at the age of eight, and became immensely popular on the small screen. Now, 18-year-old Avika Gor has quit her ongoing show, Sasural Simar Ka. She says she wants to indulge in other activities. Here, she talks about her television journey, her plan to make short films, and more.

Why did you quit your TV show?

After working non-stop for 10 years, I wanted a break. I took this step because I didn’t want to get fed up of acting altogether. I want to work on myself now. I want to learn new things. I haven’t signed any new show or film. I have turned 18, and I am doing well for myself. So, there is no pressure to earn money.

What do you plan to do during your sabbatical?

I will take guitar lessons, and maybe attend dance classes too. I haven’t decided which dance I want to learn though. I have activities planned for an entire month. Post that, I will produce a few short films and music videos. That will be my creative outlet, and will keep me in touch with the industry. I am also busy with my online screenplay-writing course.

Do you think your absence might be detrimental to your career?

I’m not concerned. People love me and will support me. I also have some work commitments. I have a Kannada film, which will release in May. I will miss being in touch with my fans, but they will see me in my short films. I want to figure out what I want to do. You never know, I might realise that I want to direct, and not act at all.

You were successful as a child actor, and have almost become a role model for aspiring child artistes...

This journey has been fabulous. When I started, I was eight. Back then, I had no idea what was going on, but I learnt a lot. People, till today, remember me as Anandi (her character from her debut show), even though I did that show for only two years, whereas I played Roli (her character from her latest show) for four years. The awards and appreciation felt great, but at that time, I didn’t realise the magnitude of all that. Today, when I look back, I feel blessed.