“At some point in your life, if you’re lucky, you get to design the way in which things evolve.” –
Sir Daniel Day Lewis.
The ‘luck’ in my life without a doubt was being born to such supportive parents without whom I wouldn’t be where I am today.
The ‘design’ I chose for my life was to pursue a career in acting. Sir Daniel Day Lewis’s transformative roles, Anthony Hopkins’s captivating presence, Jack Nicholson’s charisma, Marlon Brando’s raw intensity, Ingrid Bergman’s grace, Buster Keaton’ssilent brilliance, and Meryl Streep’s unparalleled versatility is what inspired me to become an Actor.
At just one year and three months old, my first love – my mother, transformed me into an adorable Lord Krishna for a society skit in Mumbai and that was the first time that I ever stepped on stage. My journey began in a boarding school in Ooty (Good Shepherd International School) that helped pave the path towards becoming an Actor. I was in the seventh grade when I decided that I’d pursue acting. During my schooling days I got into music and learnt to play various musical instruments such as the Trumpet, French Horn, Baritone, Bugle, Xylophone etc. that deepened my interest in the field of entertainment.
After finishing high school, I got my Diploma in Acting from Anupam Kher’s Actor Prepares, Mumbai. Post Diploma, I tried my luck in the industry in Mumbai but nothing came of it as I was not only given false hopes but was also scammed by pretentious production houses. Gliding my path through repeated rejections and hardships, with a heavy yet eager heart I left the bustling land of Bollywood. I took a leap of faith and went on to pursue my Bachelor of Fine Arts in Stage Acting in the city of love – Paris.
The journey was not just a physical transition but a cultural odyssey that brought with it its own set of challenges. Culture shock hit me hard as I navigated the nuances of a new language, unfamiliar traditions, and a rhythm of life vastly different from what I had known. Amidst the challenges, the world of musical theatre opened its doors to me. It was a revelation – an opportunity to express myself through the universal language of music and dance. I performed in seven different languages, weaving stories that transcended borders, from the passionate rhythms of Spanish to the lyrical beauty of Italian, the melodic cadence of Hausa, the poetic charm of French, the soulful resonance of Zulu, the universal appeal of English, and the nostalgic warmth
of Hindi.
Yet, behind the scenes, the struggles persisted. Nights spent on bus stops became a stark reality, a testament to the challenges one faces while pursuing their dreams. But in those moments of adversity, I found strength and resilience that I never knew I possessed.
The turning point in my story came when I finally decided to move to Hollywood. I had dreamt of being here all my life ever since I was a kid. The city of dreams welcomed me with open arms. I went on to pursue a 1-year Conservatory course in Acting for Film at the New York Film Academy, Los Angeles. NYFA gave me an unforgettable experience and a massive amount of exposure for which I am immensely thankful for. With every day in Hollywood each day became an opportunity for growth and success.
As of today, I have worked in almost 45 short films, some of which will be making festival circuits. I also got to be a part of an independent feature and am very grateful for all the experience and the beautiful people who have given me the opportunity.
From Ooty to Mumbai to Paris to Hollywood, it’s been a journey and I can’t wait to see what’s next in store for me.
“Miles to go before I sleep.”
