CREDITS –
Photographer: Apeksha Maker
Styling: Ami Patel
Hair & Make-up: Shraddha Luthra
Jewellery: Goenka India, Maya Sanghvi Jewels, Uncut by Aditi Amin, Lune & Soni Sapphire
Production: FSP Production
Wardrobe: Falguni Shane Peacock
Alanna Panday has long been a familiar name in India’s social and digital landscape—known for carving out her own unique path as one of the country’s pioneering influencers. She’s familiar with the spotlight and has navigated the limelight since childhood to establish herself as a content creator with a distinct voice. Alanna’s journey reflects that which is driven by passion, resilience, and authenticity. Her refreshing approach to success—focused on happiness and staying true to her own vision—resonates with her audience on a deep level. And so it comes as no surprise that her fans worldwide want a glimpse of her life. Now, as she embarks on a new chapter with her OTT debut, Alanna continues to raise the bar. She, through her journey, reminds us that true success lies in doing what you love.
Here’s Alanna sharing her thoughts on growing up around the film industry, the evolution of her career, and what drives her forward, in a quick and candid conversation with The Peacock Magazine.
Q) How did growing up in and around the film fraternity influence your childhood? Did you subconsciously take any notes from them?
Alanna Panday (AP): Growing up around the film world taught me that what looks glamorous on the surface often comes with hours of hard work and unwavering dedication. Watching actors work 15-hour days with a smile on their faces was inspiring, but I knew that wasn’t my path. Everyone suggested I give movies a try, but I’ve always believed that true success requires genuine passion—and for me, cinema just didn’t spark that fire. I knew I had to find what I loved to truly thrive.
Q) As a kid, you have been in the limelight ever since your childhood days. Have you ever felt you grew up according to someone’s standards and expectations?
AP: Despite the environment we grew up in, my childhood was blissfully normal. My parents made sure of that, and I’m incredibly grateful. They protected our bubble, and I think that sense of normalcy gave me the freedom to explore who I wanted to be.
Q) You’re one of India’s OG and first influencers. When did you realize you had it in you to become one?
AP: There wasn’t a grand “aha” moment; it’s more like I had a quiet certainty from the beginning. I just knew I loved what I was doing, and that love guided me every step of the way.
Q) How did you begin your journey? How has it changed now? What factors do you weigh in more now than you did back then?
AP: I remember when Instagram first launched; I was part of the first wave of content creators in India. My mom was doing a lot of travel and wellness work, so I’d tag along to hotels and spas, documenting the experience from my own perspective. It’s been over a decade since then, and while my content has evolved dramatically, the adventure spirit remains. And yes, having Ivor by my side has definitely taken the quality up a notch!
Q) How does it feel to taste success right from the word ‘go’ and at such a young age?
AP: It’s humbling when others see me as “successful,” but I think the bar I set for myself keeps moving. I’m always aiming to outdo yesterday’s version of me. It’s this drive that keeps me going—and maybe, someday, I’ll feel like I’ve made it!
Q) What, according to you, is the definition of ‘success’ today?
AP: In my younger days, I equated success with money, but as I’ve matured, I’ve realized success is about happiness and fulfilment. Sure, I could have pursued films, but it wouldn’t have made me happy, and I’d probably be average at it compared to my brother and sister who genuinely love cinema. Creating content, however, is where I thrive—it lets me be the best version of myself, and that, to me, is true success.
Q) How do you perceive competition in your field? Who do you think is your biggest competitor?
AP: I don’t see other creators as competition. This field is beautifully diverse—each creator brings their unique aesthetic and perspective, which I find inspiring. I love following others, even if we work in similar spaces, because there’s always something fresh and distinct in their work. If anything, my biggest competition is myself; I’m constantly striving to top my own best.
Q) Do you just accept it as a part of the game? Does it get tiring or distracting?
AP: Not at all! For me, it’s simply part of the journey, and I’ve learned to embrace it with gratitude.
Q) What would be the biggest highlight of your career?
AP: I’d say the highlight has to be when a platform approached us and said, “We want to film your life.” It was one of those surreal moments where you realize people genuinely connect with your story—and they want to see more of it!
Q) Today, being an influencer is so much more than just entertainment or influencing. How do you think the definition of ‘influencer’ has changed?
AP: Honestly, I’ve never resonated with the term “influencer” because I’m not trying to “influence” anyone. I prefer “content creator”—it celebrates the creative process behind what we do. What people see as a quick 15-second reel or a single image often takes hours of love and effort to craft. There’s a lot of dedication that goes into making every post as meaningful as possible.
Q) You have just started out with your OTT debut, how was the seed of that idea sown?
AP: When we first started our YouTube channel, friends and family joked that we should have a reality show instead. I never imagined we’d actually be doing one five years later! Our channel gives viewers a peek into our relationship and family life, but the show adds a new layer, capturing the work-life balance in a way that’s unique from what we share online.
Q) Will we see you more on the OTT screen?
AP: Yes, hopefully, Season 2 of The Tribe!
Q) You’re a multitasker at your best in all spheres of your life—but what is it that you want to be known as?
AP: Right now, I’m shuffling between being the best mom I can and also running two businesses.
Q) While we know you keep it as relevant as you can, how do you keep it real and authentic?
AP: Our YouTube channel is really where we keep it the most real. Instagram might give a polished, filtered glimpse, but YouTube lets us be raw and authentic. When we chose to share our lives online, we committed to being transparent with our audience, and that’s what makes it meaningful for us.
Q) How do you deal with days when you cannot bring yourself to get out of bed and go to work?
AP: I used to feel guilty if I wasn’t being productive every single day—I was constantly pushing myself to be “on.” But after having a baby, I’ve learned to be kinder to myself. Now, if I have a low-energy day, I let myself rest and start fresh the next day. Self-compassion has become a game-changer.
Q) What’s next on the cards for you?
AP: Right now, our biggest focus is on our son, River, and soaking up every precious moment with him. This chapter is all about family time, and we’re embracing it fully.