Exclusive – The 50: Ridhi Dogra on why many avoid reality shows; opens up about trolling and comparisons, says “Being put in a group of 50 can make anyone insecure”

Ridhi Dogra, who has been a part of successful TV shows, OTT projects and films, is currently seen in 'The 50'. Before stepping inside the reality show, the actress spoke exclusively to Times of India TV, about the reason behind taking up 'The 50' and she shared her opinion on trolling and comparisons.

Speaking about taking up 'The 50', Ridhi shared, "When you look at my journey and the way I work, you’ll see that I’ve always explored different paths. I’ve simply moved across mediums and taken up varied kinds of work, so trying new things feels natural to me. I enjoy variety and like being involved in different platforms. I’ve worked in television, OTT, and films. Reality shows can be intimidating, but this one felt different.

It’s the first of its kind, with a fresh concept and a unique format and duration. All of this fits well with where I am in my career right now. Since it’s the start of the year, I felt it was the right time to do something new and bold and set the tone for the rest of the year."The actress also opened up about how the show's new format makes her anxious but she wants to try something new and push herself, "I wouldn’t call myself shy, but I am an introvert and not someone who talks a lot in big groups.

With my close friends, I can be dramatic and expressive, but otherwise, the nervousness is very real. I don’t know who all will be inside, and that makes it even more nerve-wracking. At the same time, I feel this is the right moment to push myself.

People often see me as a strong performer and a strong personality, and that’s what they usually take away from my interviews too. But I like that this gives me a chance to show a different side of me.

I want the audience and the media to see that I have vulnerabilities as well. I want to enter the show being my true self. Instead of doing multiple interviews and podcasts, I feel one reality show can truly show people who you are. This isn’t like the usual reality shows where contestants feel trapped. It’s closer to Khatron Ke Khiladi, which I’ve done before, and that’s why I’m really looking forward to it, she said.When asked how she plans to deal with fan wars and social media trolling that often follow reality shows, and how she will face the criticism that comes her way, she said, "I know who I am, and that’s what I want people to see.

I’m a genuinely nice person, and I want others to understand that. People often label you, put you in boxes, and compare you to others. Maybe I am like some people, but I still know my true self. I know many friends who chose not to do this show, or were approached but didn’t go ahead with it.

I understand their hesitation. Being in a group of 50 people and being compared to each other can feel insecure. But I feel secure in myself. Even if I’m standing in a room with 49 others and it gets loud, my personality won’t get lost. I won’t turn into someone else. You’ll see me as I truly am, standing with honesty and integrity. I’ll be fully present and authentic. That’s the reason I’m going there. I don’t feel the need to prove anything. I’m joining to enjoy the format, understand the experience, and push myself, and I’m ready to do that."