Parul Gulati on Playing Shanaya Kapoor’s Manager in Tu Yaa Main: “She’s the Emotional Anchor of the Film”

Actor-entrepreneur Parul Gulati is stepping into one of her most layered and emotionally resonant roles yet with Tu Yaa Main, an upcoming survival thriller directed by Bejoy Nambiar and presented by Aanand L Rai. In the film, Gulati essays Laira, the fiercely loyal manager and closest confidante of Shanaya Kapoor’s character—marking a refreshing departure from the stereotypical “supporting” arc often associated with such roles.

Speaking candidly about the character, Parul emphasized that Laira is far more than just a professional presence in Shanaya’s life. “She’s Shanaya’s friend and her manager. She stands by her strongly, questions her when needed, and supports her unconditionally. What truly drew me to Laira was that she isn’t on the sidelines—she’s the emotional anchor of the film,” Gulati shared in an interview with Mid-Day.

A Survival Thriller Rooted in Emotion

Tu Yaa Main revolves around two social media influencers—played by Adarsh Gourav and Shanaya Kapoor—whose attempt to shoot a high-risk video spirals into a harrowing fight for survival. While the film promises edge-of-the-seat tension, Gulati notes that its emotional core is what truly sets it apart.

For Parul, the decision to sign the film was driven by both its raw premise and the chance to be part of Aanand L Rai’s distinctive cinematic universe. “Aanand L Rai’s world is incredibly theatrical and emotionally charged. I genuinely keep pinching myself because opportunities like this feel rare—being part of a film that’s larger than life yet filled with so much heart,” she said.

Expanding on the significance of the project, Gulati added, “From an actor’s perspective and as someone passionate about meaningful storytelling, this collaboration represents everything I could have hoped for professionally. Anand L Rai’s cinematic universe is so distinctly layered and emotionally profound—exactly the kind of filmmaking I’ve long admired. Being part of such a visionary, grand-scale film that also has genuine emotional depth feels like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

A Packed Slate Ahead

Fresh off the release of Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2 (2025), Parul Gulati continues to expand her creative footprint. Beyond Tu Yaa Main, she will next be seen in the upcoming series ‘Donali’, directed by E Niwas, alongside Divyendu and Barun Sobti. The ensemble cast also includes Chunky Pandey and Yashpal Sharma. Set in the rugged terrain of Chambal during the 1960s, the series was extensively filmed across Madhya Pradesh.

Gulati’s career spans television, OTT platforms, films, and entrepreneurship. She has delivered notable performances in P.O.W. – Bandi Yuddh Ke, Selection Day, and Girls Hostel. She made her television debut with Yeh Pyar Na Hoga Kum, where she played Bittan, the younger sister of a character portrayed by Yami Gautam.

Beyond acting, Parul has also carved a niche as a successful entrepreneur. She is the CEO and founder of a leading hair extensions brand, balancing her creative pursuits with business acumen—making her one of the most dynamic multi-hyphenates in the industry today.

With Tu Yaa Main, Parul Gulati isn’t just adding another role to her filmography—she’s reinforcing her reputation as an actor who brings emotional depth, strength, and authenticity to every character she portrays.