I draw the line between compromising my values or authenticity for the sake of popularity: Gunjan Utreja on social media   

Gunjan Utreja’s recent short film KAHWA is gaining a lot of popularity across international film festivals and the movie was screened in Cannes and Rome recently. Gunjan says social media is a tool that he uses to interact with his fans, and he keeps it authentic and as real as it can be.   

He said, “For me, social media is a tool to engage with my audience and share my work. I draw the line at compromising my values or authenticity for the sake of popularity. After all, what’s the point of going viral if you lose yourself in the process?”   

He also stressed that social media is a double-edged sword and added, “Personally, it’s helped me connect with fans, discover new opportunities, and stay relevant in a fast-paced industry. It’s like having a digital megaphone—you just have to make sure you’re shouting something worth hearing! It also helps you not only express your opinions but also gain different perspectives, helping you grow as an individual.”   But Gunjan doesn’t stress over the social media popularity of others, as he believes these are things beyond control. He said, “What really matters is staying true to your craft. At the end of the day, genuine talent and hard work will outshine temporary trends. As they say, slow and steady wins the race—unless it’s a sprint, then you’re kind of screwed.”   

He also spoke about the unpredictable social media algorithms and called them the ultimate mood swings of the digital world. “I’ve definitely felt the frustration of chasing views and likes, only to have my content buried by some mysterious algorithm update. But I’ve learned to focus on creating content that I’m proud of rather than obsessing over numbers. It’s like trying to hit a moving target blindfolded—you might as well enjoy the ride and see where it takes you,” he said.   

Gunjan also pointed out that the influence of social media on casting decisions is undeniable. He said, “It’s a bit of a double-edged sword because while a strong social media presence can open doors, it can also overshadow raw talent. As an actor, I believe in balancing my online persona with my craft. It’s important to remember that followers and likes don’t define your ability. It’s like adding seasoning to a dish—great to have, but talent is the main ingredient.”