An actor’s first audition is a defining moment filled with excitement, nerves, and unexpected surprises. Whether it’s a well-planned attempt or a twist of fate, that very first step into the world of acting leaves a lasting impression. &TV artists including Smita Sable (Dhaniya, Bheema), Geetanjali Mishra (Rajesh, Happu Ki Ultan Paltan) and Shubhangi Atre (Angoori Bhabhi, Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai), share their memorable first audition experiences. Smita Sable, essaying Dhaniya in &TV’s Bheema, shares, “I still remember my first audition for a Marathi serial like it was yesterday! Before stepping into the world of acting, I was working as a cabin crew, traveling to different places and meeting new people. I got a surprise call for an audition after one modelling photoshoot. I was thrilled and absolutely terrified at the same time! On the day of the audition, I walked in with confidence, but the moment I saw the camera, my nerves took over. My heartbeat raced like a jet taking off, and suddenly I forgot my well-practiced lines. When my turn came, I entered the room, greeted everyone, and stood there, frozen. The director smiled and asked me to relax. I finally started with my dialogue. Despite my nervousness, I gave my best shot, and to my surprise, I got selected.”Geetanjali Mishra, essaying Rajesh in &TV’s Happu Ki Ultan Paltan, shares, “I always say that I’m an accidental actor, and it’s absolutely true! My very first audition was also my first-ever shot in front of the camera. It all happened in the most unexpected way. One day, out of the blue, my neighbour who was working as a creative on a set called me in sheer distress. An actor had backed out at the last moment, and they needed an urgent replacement. Before I could even process what was happening, she rushed me to the set, did some quick touch-ups, handed me a script, and pushed me in front of the camera. I had no clue what was going on. No rehearsals, no preparation but was provided just a few dialogues and a simple instruction: Act when the director says ‘Action’. So, I took a deep breath and did exactly that. As soon as the director yelled ‘Cut’, something unexpectedhappened. Everyone started clapping! A little nervous, I thought I had messed up. But when they asked if it was truly my first time on camera and I shyly said yes, their appreciation only grew. That’s when I realized I had just pulled off a great scene.” Shubhangi Atre, essaying Angoori Bhabhi in &TV’s Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai, shares, “It all started when I was selected from a photo ad for a regional shampoo commercial. That call was unexpected, but it felt like a small door opened for me to step into the world of acting. At that time, my daughter was just 11 months old, and like any new mother, my world revolved around her. I remember going for auditions with her in my arms, balancing my aspirations and responsibilities. The journey itself was filled with mixed emotions of fear of the unknown, the joy of getting an opportunity, and the nervousness of stepping into something completely new. When I reached my first audition venue, I saw many talented faces, all prepared and confident. I took a deep breath and stepped in. The moment I faced the camera, a strange calm took over me. The nervousness faded, and I gave it my best shot. The audition went well, and the casting team appreciated my performance.” Watch their stellar performances in Bheema at 8:30 PM, Happu Ki Ultan Paltan at 10:00 PM, and Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai at 10:30 PM, every Monday to Friday, only on &TV!