Ananya Panday, a name that has been trending on Google, makes her digital debut with Amazon Prime Video’s latest series Call Me Bae. Produced by Karan Johar’s Dharmatic Entertainment, this light-hearted series showcases Ananya in a refreshing role as Bae, a South Delhi fashionista whose life takes a sharp turn. Directed by Collin D’Cunha, the show delivers humor, growth, and a playful look at privilege.
Ananya Panday as Bae: A New Persona
In Call Me Bae, Ananya Panday’s character Bae, short for Bella, undergoes a journey that redefines her. Known for her spoiled and carefree life in South Delhi, she wears her privilege proudly—until it all falls apart. Caught by her husband Agastya (Vihaan Samat) getting too cozy with her gym trainer (Varun Sood), Bae’s picture-perfect world collapses, and she is cut off from her wealthy family.
The show takes viewers on a comedic yet meaningful exploration of what happens when someone from such privilege is thrust into an unfamiliar world—Mumbai, where her usual charm and money have little value. Ananya plays Bae with a mix of cluelessness and ease, balancing her character’s luxurious lifestyle with the challenges she faces while trying to make it on her own.
Not Your Average Riches-to-Rags Story
Unlike other riches-to-rags stories, Call Me Bae doesn’t wallow in drama. Instead, it keeps things light with witty dialogues and fun scenarios. From Bae sanitizing a beach bench before sitting down to try vada pav for the first time, to comparing an autorickshaw to a Mini Cooper, the show is full of clever moments that poke fun at her sheltered life. Ananya’s self-aware performance keeps the show engaging, and the screenplay (by Ishita Moitra, Samina Motlekar, and Rohit Nair) ensures that Bae’s journey is as entertaining as it is layered.
Ananya Panday’s Growth as an Actress
For Ananya Panday, Call Me Bae marks a significant step forward in her career. Known for playing light-hearted, bubbly characters, she takes a more nuanced approach in this role. Bae is more than just a spoiled socialite; she’s a flawed but endearing character who grows, albeit subtly, over the course of the series. Ananya brings depth to the role, making Bae relatable without losing the humor that makes the show so enjoyable.
Much like Ranveer Singh’s character in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, Bae doesn’t entirely transform by the end of the series. Instead, she learns and grows in smaller, meaningful ways, remaining true to her identity while becoming more self-aware and grounded.
Supporting Cast: Vir Das and More Stand Out
The supporting cast plays a vital role in enhancing the series’ appeal. Vir Das, as news anchor Satyajit Sen, adds a hilarious and sharp edge to the story. His dynamic with Bae, who joins his news channel, brings some of the show’s best moments. Das, clearly enjoying his role, mocks the sensationalism of Indian news with playful satire. Their contrasting worlds—his hardened journalistic approach versus her social media sensibilities—add a fun, layered conflict to the plot.
The standout supporting role is played by Muskkaan Jaferi as Bae’s flatmate. Her quick wit and lively presence offer a perfect counterpoint to Bae’s more laid-back demeanor, injecting energy into every scene she’s in.
A Show About Women, Growth, and the ‘Behen-code’
One of the most compelling aspects of Call Me Bae is its subtle focus on female relationships. Bae’s growth is influenced by the women she interacts with—her mother, her co-workers, and her flatmate. The series introduces the playful concept of the ‘Behen-code,’ a symbolic guide for women supporting one another. Each female character in the show, whether it’s Bae’s sassy mother (Mini Mathur) or her colleagues at the news channel, adds a fresh perspective that contributes to her journey.
The show’s mix of fun and frothiness doesn’t take away from these important connections. In fact, it reinforces the idea that women can grow and thrive together, even in the most unlikely circumstances.
Ananya Panday’s Fashion Journey Mirrors Her Character’s Growth
Visually, the series is vibrant, and much of that comes from the striking fashion choices. Costume design plays a significant role in reflecting Bae’s evolution—from her flashy, extravagant outfits in the early episodes to the more professional, subdued attire as she finds her footing in her new life. By the end of the series, when Bae chooses a simple dark blazer over her usual flashy ensembles, it’s clear that her external transformation mirrors her internal growth.
Conclusion: Light-Hearted Fun with a Dash of Depth
Call Me Bae is an easy watch, combining humor with character growth, and it stands out because it doesn’t take itself too seriously. Ananya Panday shines in her role, proving she has the range to play more complex, layered characters. Supported by a talented ensemble cast and witty writing, the series offers entertainment with a message, showing how even the most privileged people can evolve when faced with new challenges.
Ananya Panday’s performance is one to watch, and Call Me Bae is the perfect platform for her to showcase her growing talent.