Sanjana sparks change

Sanjana Sanghi, acclaimed actor and UNDP India Youth Champion, stands at the forefront of youth-led global advocacy. Balancing her creative journey in cinema with her role as a changemaker, Sanjana represents a new generation of Indian women who blend purpose with passion — taking India’s voice and vision to the world stage.

As a UNDP Youth Champion, what changes would you like to see?

We need to see voices of the youth being amplified. To make the youth part of the decisions that are going to affect their future. My work as the UNDP Youth Champion is focused on that.

How does it feel to represent India on such a significant global platform?

I can’t quite explain how significant and surreal it feels. When I was a student in Delhi University’s Lady Shri Ram College, I understood the profound impact education can have on our professional and personal life. This belief has guided my entire journey.

Meeting Dia Mirza on a global stage must have been special. How did the interaction go?

Dia for me has always been an inspiration. Her role as an actor and change-maker gave me the roadmap. We later became co-actors in Dhak Dhak. Now I call her an elder sister who I turn to constantly for advice. Moments before I went on to the podium at the United Nations General Assembly to give my speech last year, I asked her for advice as I was a budle of nerves. Her words of encouragement really calmed me down.

What advice would you give to young Indians who aspire to create an impact on global platforms like the UN?

My own journey began as a teacher-volunteer at a NGO for underprivileged students in Delhi while I was a student. Start locally, start within your community and doors will open for you.

You have some exciting projects lined up, including Dhak Dhak 2 on Netflix. What can audiences look forward to next?

Having done five films as a lead actor, I am being fearless and unabashed in my choices. I’m also looking forward to finally doing my first long-format show.