Beyond the Lens: Aparna Dixit’ “Work-Cum-Vacation” in the City of Nawabs

April 2026 — For many actors, a film schedule often means long hours on set, back-to-back takes, and little time to see the world outside their vanity vans. But for television and OTT star Aparna Dixit, a recent 40-day shooting stint in Lucknow turned out to be far more than just a professional commitment. It was a holistic experience that blended the hustle of a thriller set with the soulful charm of a vacation.

Reflecting on her time in the city, the Kalash actor didn’t hold back her enthusiasm, famously stating, “This has been an out-of-this-world experience in Lucknow. It was like a work-cum-vacation trip. Dil tript ho gaya mera (my heart is completely satisfied)!”

A Thrilling Project in the Heart of UP

Aparna, who was most recently seen in the 2025 series Tulsi Humari Badi Siyani, spent over a month filming in Lucknow for the upcoming thriller series Hotspot, directed by Rajeev Mendiratta. The production saw the cast and crew stationed across the city, utilizing iconic locations like Gomti Nagar, the scenic Janeshwar Mishra Park, and the traditional lanes of Old Lucknow.

Unlike short-term projects where actors barely get a chance to step out, this extended 40-day schedule allowed Aparna to shed the typical “tourist” label and instead embrace the rhythm of a local.

More Than Just a Shoot: A Culinary Exploration

For Aparna, who is a self-proclaimed vegetarian, Lucknow—a city globally renowned for its meat-based delicacies—offered an unexpected paradise. She debunked the myth that the city of Nawabs is limited to non-vegetarian fare.

“I have left nothing—chaat, pakori, kachauri. I tried everything!” she shared, noting that she spent her evenings after pack-up exploring the city’s bustling food landscape. Her favorite haunt became the Food Valley at the Gomti Riverfront, a spot she admitted to visiting at least five times due to the sheer variety of vegetarian street food on offer.

The actor’s culinary adventure was shared with her co-star, Ssanjay Gaggnani, who apparently helped her cultivate a healthy addiction to the local street chaat. “We were literally having it every day. I am now missing it!” she added with a laugh.

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Balancing Life and Art

What made this trip truly special for the actor was the serendipity of it all. During her stay, her family happened to be in the city for a wedding. This allowed her to balance the demanding schedule of a thriller series with intimate, precious time spent with loved ones.

Beyond the social gatherings, Aparna took the time to self-explore. Staying in Gomti Nagar for over 15 days, she made it a ritual to lace up her shoes after a day of intense filming and head out to discover the city’s burgeoning café culture. She also took a spiritual detour, visiting local landmarks like the Hanuman Setu and Chandrika Devi temples, adding a sense of serenity to her hectic work life.

Even the transit became part of the experience. The actor took a scenic road trip to her hometown, Agra, via the Lucknow-Agra Expressway, completing the journey in just four hours.

Staying Grounded in the Industry

Aparna Dixit’s career path remains focused and grounded. Having previously starred in web projects like Exit (2022) and Sabse Bada Rupaiya (2024), she is clear about her approach to the evolving entertainment landscape. When asked about her jump to films, she maintains a pragmatic view.

“I have not done a film yet, and I’m not in a hurry! I surely want to do that, but the fact is that I have not received anything substantial so far,” she explained. For the actor, the medium—whether it is the small screen, a streaming platform, or the silver screen—matters less than the quality of the narrative. “I just want to do good work regardless of the platform.”

A Lasting Connection

As the Hotspot team wrapped their final schedule—which included filming at the Scorpio Club—Aparna reflected on the hospitality provided by show creator Nitin Mishra and the people of Lucknow. It is clear that the city did more than just provide a backdrop for a web series; it provided a sanctuary.

For an actor constantly on the move, finding a place that feels like home while working is a rare luxury. With her belly full of chaat, a heart full of memories, and a successful project in the bag, Aparna Dixit leaves behind a piece of herself in Lucknow, already looking forward to the next time her work brings her back to the city.