Cine-Magic of Indian Storytelling

My journey in India commenced at the iconic Prithvi Theatre, the beating heart of Mumbai's theatrical landscape and a cornerstone of Indian culture. Despite its vintage charm as a traditional venue, Prithvi's intimate ambience exudes a sanctity that resonates deeply within the realm of Indian theatre. 

While my initial aspirations revolved around directing and producing, fate intervened when I crossed paths with Akarsh Khurana, who offered me the role of an 'evil white guy' in his production, "Baghdad Wedding." This role as the gora shaitaan (‘white devil’) proved instrumental in opening doors to myriad opportunities. The play's success, culminating in a META (Mahindra Excellence in Theatre Awards) accolade, afforded me the privilege of touring the nation. Through my involvement with the theatre group, I seamlessly integrated into the Indian film fraternity, transcending the label of an outsider to become a valued contributor to the vibrant tapestry of Indian cinema.

Juggling movies and monetary stints 

While many perceive acting solely through a glamorous lens, the reality often entails juggling multiple gigs to make ends meet. Following my education in filmmaking, fate led me to a consulting role at KPMG. It was during this corporate chapter that I found myself unexpectedly drawn to India, courtesy of an invitation from the Securities and Exchange Board of India for a lecture. The corporate trajectory gave me invaluable experience and exposure, providing a solid foundation to pursue my artistic endeavours. 

Drawing upon my rich experiences, I embarked on a new journey as a screen acting instructor at Whistling Woods in Mumbai. This fusion of corporate acumen and artistic flair has enabled me to impart invaluable knowledge to aspiring actors while continuing to nurture my creative spirit.

Echoes of Centuries: Theatre's Vibrant Legacy 

There’s no shortage of creative arts and endeavours in this country. India boasts a vibrant tapestry of folk theatre, and in Mumbai, there is a strong tradition of Parsi, Gujarati, and Marathi works. This city alone hosts a staggering 1500 theatre shows per month, in over a dozen languages. With approximately 50 shows running nightly, it's a haven for cinema and theatre enthusiasts alike.

Many aspiring actors have looked overseas for advanced training, but in the last decade, there has been a remarkable shift. Recognising India's rich heritage and wealth of legendary artists, the focus has shifted towards providing world-class cinema and theatre education domestically. Esteemed institutions like DSM Drama School, Whistling Woods in Mumbai, and Annapurna in Hyderabad epitomise this transformation, welcoming national and international experts to impart their knowledge.

Renowned actors such as Anupam Kher and Neeraj Kabi also conduct workshops, further enriching the learning experience for aspiring talents. The influx of foreign nationals into India's cinema space, exemplified first by Barry John's acting school in Delhi and Mumbai, underscores the country's burgeoning reputation as a hub for artistic pursuits.

International collaborations, such as the partnership between theatre director Sunil Shanbag and the German consulate's Goethe Institute, have offered a platform for cultural exchange. Through joint productions, artists from different backgrounds converge to learn from each other's traditions, fostering a deeper understanding of global theatre.

As the world emerges from the COVID-19 pandemic, there's a renewed appreciation for live performances. The resurgence of interest in concerts by artists like Taylor Swift and AR Rahman signifies a shift towards experiential entertainment. This revival bodes well for India's theatre scene, offering an opportunity to showcase its cultural richness on a global stage and further cement its position as a leader in the world of performing arts.

Indian Cinema: The Global Blockbuster Revolution!

Beyond theatre, cinema has a rich history spanning over a hundred years in India. The concept of 'Masala' in mainstream Indian movies emerged from the audience's preferences and the economic landscape of the industry. These movies, blending drama, thrill, music, and comedy, quickly became synonymous with Indian cinema, encapsulating their vibrant essence. In parallel, a stream of independent films began to gain traction, offering a departure from the mainstream narrative and often finding acclaim at film festivals. While Indian filmmakers drew inspiration from global cinema, Indian cinema itself began to leave its mark on the world stage.

Initially, the distribution of Indian cinema abroad was largely driven by the diaspora. However, with the advent of globalisation and the internet, Indian cinema and music have transcended geographical boundaries, captivating audiences worldwide. Today, Indian cinema enjoys widespread recognition and admiration globally, a testament to its universal appeal and enduring influence.

Fifteen years ago, Hollywood held less than 1% of the Indian box office market share. However, by 2020, this figure had surged to approximately 15%. Blockbusters from franchises like Marvel and movies like "Oppenheimer" have resonated strongly with Indian audiences, contributing to this rise. 

Conversely, Indian films are gaining traction in international markets, including the United States. Previously, it was rare to find an Indian movie in the USA’s week's Top 10, with exceptions like ‘Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham’, largely due to diaspora viewership. However, this has changed and the Indian cinema is now captivating non-Indian audiences worldwide as well. Films like "Dangal'' have garnered widespread acclaim and international awards, underscoring the global appeal of Indian cinema. In addition to the earlier popularity of Bollywood, regional cinema from Hyderabad, exemplified by movies like "RRR," is gaining prominence on the global stage. No longer merely a market for global films, the subcontinent is increasingly a significant exporter of its cinema, showcasing its cultural richness and storytelling prowess to audiences around the world.

The Over-The-Top (‘OTT’) Revolution  

Exporting of cinema is no longer restricted to conventional theatre releases. With the emergence of OTT platforms, filmmakers have found a remarkable medium to showcase their work and transcend boundaries. In the past, if a theatrical release was not feasible, filmmakers were left with limited options like DVD releases, often seen as detrimental to a film's success. However, the landscape has transformed significantly, and OTT platforms now offer a viable and attractive alternative. With the undeniable popularity of OTT among audiences, filmmakers can reach a wide and diverse viewership without the constraints of traditional distribution channels. This shift has empowered Indian cinema, mainstream and independent alike to reach viewers worldwide and garner much-deserved popularity and acclamation.  

Mumbai Meri Jaan 

Having spent a significant amount of time in India, it has truly become my second home. Among all the cities I've experienced, Mumbai and New York hold a special place in my heart. I often liken them to cousin sisters – vastly different yet connected in subtle ways. Mumbai, often referred to as the financial capital of India, stands out for its unique composition, with approximately 77% of its population comprising migrants from various states and regions across the country. This diversity is not limited to Mumbai alone; it's a hallmark of India itself, where myriad cultures, languages, and traditions coexist harmoniously.

Mumbai, in particular, serves as a vibrant microcosm of India's rich tapestry of diversity. The city pulsates with the collective energy of people from diverse backgrounds, coming together and thriving amidst their differences. This dynamic interplay of cultures and identities is what makes Mumbai truly special – a melting pot of humanity where magic happens.

India's long history of migration has shaped its identity in profound ways. Unlike countries experiencing recent waves of immigration, India's story of migration spans centuries, resulting in a rich tapestry of cultures and traditions deeply ingrained in its fabric. This vast mosaic of diversity is not just a snapshot but a continuum, evolving and enriching every aspect of Indian life – from food to language, art, and beyond. In many ways, India's approach to migration serves as a valuable lesson for nations grappling with the complexities of immigration today. 

As a migrant myself, I've witnessed firsthand how Indian culture embraces outsiders, seamlessly integrating them into the fold. This stands in stark contrast to the challenges faced by migrants in many parts of the world, where they often encounter exploitation and exclusion. India's inclusive ethos offers a compelling model for fostering harmony and unity amidst diversity, demonstrating the transformative power of acceptance and integration.

Bollywood Diaries

As I immerse myself in contributing to my newfound home, the world of cinema continues to offer me remarkable experiences. Working alongside global icon Shah Rukh Khan was, for me, a reaffirmation of his unparalleled stardom. His professionalism, unwavering focus, and genuine kindness set him apart as a truly exceptional actor. Witnessing his dedication on set was a revelation in itself – there's simply no one else quite like him.

Another actor who left a lasting impression on me is Rajkumar Rao, with whom I shared a scene in the ‘Bose, Dead or Alive’ series. Though only together in one scene, it was a masterclass in acting for me. Watching Rajkumar execute a scene where he hit me repeatedly with a slipper, without actually losing his acting focus, was a testament to his extraordinary talent. His meticulous understanding of camera angles and precise movements allowed him to deliver a flawless performance in a single take.

My journey as an actor in India has taught me that even minor roles in well-crafted narratives can garner significant recognition and open doors to new opportunities. As Indian storytelling continues to evolve and gain prominence on the global stage, the possibilities are endless. It's an exciting time to be part of an industry that is poised to make a profound impact on audiences worldwide.