Surbhi Chandna Says Producing Is a Creative Choice, Not a Response to Fewer Acting Offers

Actor Surbhi Chandna says her transition into film and content production is rooted in creative ambition rather than professional necessity. While continuing to build her acting career, the television star believes producing gives her an opportunity to contribute to storytelling in a more meaningful way.

Known for popular television shows including Ishqbaaaz and Naagin 5, Chandna recently expanded her creative journey by launching a production banner with her husband, entrepreneur Karan Sharma. She says acting remains at the heart of her career, but producing allows her to participate in every stage of a project—from developing ideas to bringing stories to audiences.

“Acting will always be my first love, but over the years I’ve developed a deep interest in storytelling beyond just playing a character. I wanted to be involved right from the ideation stage—creating stories, nurturing talent and building projects that truly connect with audiences. My decision has nothing to do with lack of good roles,” Surbhi Chandna said.

Producing Was Never a Backup Plan

Chandna is clear that her decision should not be interpreted as a shift away from acting. Instead, she sees it as a natural extension of her creative interests.

According to the actor, producing was never meant to replace her work in front of the camera. She believes every artist follows a different path, and while some remain focused solely on acting, she wanted to explore another side of the entertainment business.

“I don’t think every actor needs another career. If acting fulfils you, that’s absolutely enough. For me, producing wasn’t a backup plan; it was a creative extension of what I already love doing,” she explained.

Her first project under the new banner is Ishk Dum Aur Idli Rasam, produced in collaboration with Ekta Kapoor’s production house.

A Changing Entertainment Industry

Chandna also spoke about how India’s entertainment landscape has evolved in recent years. With audiences consuming stories across multiple platforms, she believes talent now matters more than the medium.

Rather than viewing television, streaming platforms and films as separate industries, she sees them as different formats serving the same purpose—telling engaging stories.

“Today, audiences care more about talent than the platform an actor comes from. OTT has opened many doors and I believe good performances will always find their audience. I don’t look at TV, OTT or films as separate worlds anymore. They’re simply different mediums to tell meaningful stories, and as an actor, I’d love to explore all of them,” she said.

Storytelling Beyond the Screen

The actor’s comments reflect a broader trend in the entertainment industry, where performers are increasingly taking on responsibilities as producers, creators and entrepreneurs. Owning intellectual property and participating in creative development allows artists greater influence over the stories they wish to tell while creating opportunities for emerging writers, directors and performers.

For Chandna, however, the focus remains firmly on content rather than career diversification. She says her goal is to support projects that resonate with audiences and offer fresh perspectives.

What’s Next for Surbhi Chandna?

While Chandna continues to evaluate acting opportunities across television, OTT platforms and films, she is also actively developing projects through her production banner. With her dual role as actor and producer, she hopes to contribute both on-screen and behind the scenes without compromising her passion for performance.

As India’s entertainment ecosystem continues to evolve, Chandna believes meaningful storytelling—not the platform—will ultimately determine a project’s success.