In the ever-evolving world of entertainment, success stories often emerge from unexpected beginnings
Ambika Mod, the talented actress now gracing our screens in Netflix’s adaptation of David Nicholls’ novel One Day, is a prime example of resilience and passion triumphing over initial setbacks.
Discovering Comedy At Durham University
Mod’s journey to stardom took an interesting turn during her time at Durham University.
Despite facing rejection in every acting audition, fate stepped in when she noticed a sign for the Durham Revue, the university’s answer to the renowned Cambridge Footlights.
“I hadn’t written any comedy before. But I went along and kept getting through to the next round and eventually I got in. It felt like it was meant to be; I had found my calling in comedy,” Mod shares, reflecting on the pivotal moment that shaped her career.
Navigating The Early Years
- Post-university, Mod continued to hone her comedic skills by organizing comedy gigs and participating in short films. Balancing her artistic pursuits with full-time positions at John Lewis and Conde Nast showcased her dedication to her craft.
- Just before heading to the Edinburgh Fringe in 2019, Mod began reaching out to agents and auditioning for acting roles. However, her plans took an unexpected turn with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
i’m late to watching this is going to hurt (2022) but ambika mod’s performance as shruti broke my heart into pieces and is going to stay with me for a long, long time pic.twitter.com/46goae9n2Y
— oliver (blue) (@travellingsoot) March 7, 2023
- “The pandemic came, and comedy died on its arse, and I felt like I didn’t have anything, just an industry that I didn’t feel part of. It was a huge test of resilience,” Mod recalls
- In the face of adversity, Mod’s comedy training became a distinguishing factor in landing the role of junior doctor Shruti in the BBC hit drama This Is Going To Hurt.
Ambitions Beyond Acting
“My focus is very much on acting for the next couple of years, but in terms of the long game, I would love to develop and produce projects.
I will always be an all-round creative at heart,” Mod states, highlighting her multifaceted approach to the entertainment industry.
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Ambika Mod: Her Personal And Professional Life
In the late months of 2020, as the world grappled with a new wave of Covid, Ambika Mod found herself stepping into the role of Shruti Acharya in Adam Kay’s compelling TV adaptation, “This Is Going to Hurt.”
The series, based on Kay’s diaries as a junior NHS doctor, explores the challenges faced by health workers, especially poignant given the contemporary healthcare crisis.
Mod’s portrayal of Shruti, a young south Asian female junior doctor, brings a rare depth to the screen.
The Significance Of Shruti Acharya
Shruti Acharya’s character, according to Mod, represents a well-written, complex portrayal of a young south Asian woman—an archetype not often seen in mainstream media.
The character’s depth is derived from a combination of real-life experiences of individuals Kay encountered during his time as a junior doctor. Mod’s personal connection to the character adds authenticity to her performance.
Navigating The NHS Landscape
Set in 2006 on the obstetrics and gynaecology ward of a London hospital, the series sheds light on the challenges faced by Adam and Shruti in an under-resourced NHS.
Mod’s preparation for the role involved extensive research, given the limitations imposed by the pandemic.
Unable to shadow real doctors, she delved into books, articles, documentaries, podcasts, and conversations with current junior doctors.
The Physical Toll Of The Medical Profession
- One striking revelation from Mod’s research was the physical toll the medical profession takes. Junior doctors, as depicted in the series, endure long hours without breaks, sacrificing personal needs for the demands of their profession.
- Mod emphasizes the importance of these minute details in portraying the exhaustion and mental strain faced by medical professionals.
- For Mod, stepping into the role of Shruti marks a significant departure from her comedic roots. A former comedian and part of the Durham Revue, Mod’s journey into acting takes a serious turn with “This Is Going to Hurt.” Despite the heavy themes of racism, abusive relationships, and mental health crises, Mod injects moments of dark humor, a skill honed during her time in comedy.
Behind The Scenes: Creating Realism
While the series tackles intense medical storylines, authenticity was paramount.
Medical experts were consulted to ensure accuracy, and a prosthetics team crafted realistic components of childbirth, surgery, and medical procedures.
The graphic nature of certain scenes, particularly childbirth, sparked reactions, but Mod emphasizes the messy and gory reality of such experiences.
Personal Mysteries And Professional Bonds
While Ambika Mod keeps her personal life guarded, rumors swirl about a possible relationship with someone named Andrew.
The enigma surrounding her private affairs only adds to the intrigue, leaving fans eagerly anticipating revelations from the actress herself.
Ambika Mod Celebrating Christmas
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A Glimpse Into Mod’s Future
Post-filming, Mod returned to standup, a world where she thrived in “self-deprecating” material. However, the experience of portraying Shruti triggered an identity crisis.
Is she a comedian or an actor? Despite the uncertainty, Mod reveals her true aspiration—to be an actor.
Inspired by the success of writer-performers like Rose Matafeo and Aisling Bea, Mod envisions creating her own TV show someday.
Behind The Scenes: Crafting Authenticity In Medical Drama
In a behind-the-scenes revelation, Ambika Mod details the meticulous preparation for medical scenes in the series.
Alongside Ben Whishaw, she underwent a “crash course” in medical operations, ensuring authenticity in portraying intricate procedures, including a caesarean section.
This commitment to realism adds depth to the narrative and showcases the dedication of the cast.
Ambika Mod, The Young Actress
Looking ahead, Mod, based in south London, harbors ambitions beyond her acting career.
Inspired by creatives like Greta Gerwig and Margot Robbie, she envisions a future where she not only acts but also develops and produces projects.
Her ability to navigate both comedic and dramatic realms set her apart during auditions, earning her acclaim for her performance alongside Ben Whishaw
The Impact Of “This Is Going To Hurt”
- The resonance of the series extends beyond the screen. Messages pouring in, especially from NHS staff, validate the show’s accuracy and impact.
- Mod expresses humility at the overwhelming response, acknowledging that “This Is Going to Hurt” transcends individual contributions, becoming a narrative larger than any one of them.
Professional Life Unveiled: Comedy Takes Center Stage
Post-graduation, Ambi, like many young adults, grappled with the uncertainty of choosing a career path.
However, fueled by her innate comedic talent, she delved into the world of comedy
Initiating with writing humorous tales, Ambi soon transitioned to stand-up comedy sessions, gradually receiving offers for paid shows.
Breaking Stereotypes
Despite the conventional concerns of Asian parents, who viewed stand-up comedy as a mere hobby, Ambi persisted.
She navigated through familial skepticism, proving her mettle in the entertainment industry.
Roles in short films paved the way for a deeper understanding of acting, leading her to The Assembly Rooms Theatre, Durham, and eventually, The Artists Partnership.
- Ambika Mod’s portrayal of Shruti Acharya in “This Is Going to Hurt” is not just a role; it’s a testament to the resilience of healthcare professionals
Ambika Mod: Cultural Roots And Parents
A significant chapter of Ambi’s life revolves around her sister, Priya Mod.
Both attended the same school during their formative years, fostering a bond that echoes through their shared experiences.
Cultural Roots
Ambika Mod, affectionately known as Ambi, entered this world in 1996, hailing from Hatfield, Hertfordshire, England.
Despite being raised in Potters Bar, her roots were deeply entwined with Indian culture, a testament to her parents’ immigrant background.
Born to Indian immigrants, Ambi’s connection with her cultural heritage remained steadfast throughout her upbringing.
Her Parents: A Fusion Of Cultures
Ambi’s mother, arriving in London during childhood, and her father, settling in his 20s, instilled a rich blend of English and Indian values
Her educational journey commenced at Dame Alice Owen’s School, leading to a Bachelor of Arts in English studies from St. Mary’s College, Durham.
It was during her time at Durham that Ambi’s passion for acting and comedy blossomed, with notable performances at the 2015 Edinburgh Fringe Festival, where she also served as the troupe’s president in 2017.
Ambika Mod FAQ’s
Q1. Is Ambika Mod Indian?
Her parents are of Indian origin.
Q2. Does Ambika Mod have any siblings?
She has a sister named Priya Mod.
Q3. Who was Shruti in “This Is Going to Hurt”?
Ambika Mod.
Q4. Where does Ambika Mod live?
She lives in London, England.
Q5. What is Ambika Mod’s ethnicity?
She is South-East Asian.