When these Gujarati celebs heard their real calling

Aanshul Trivedi

A trained classical singer, state level swimmer, sometime PR professional, Anshul eventually some TV and theatre before joining Hindi and later Gujarati films.

I used to be lead navratri singer for musician Viju Shah. I was also the state swimming champion for four consecutive years. But the
desire to act was always there. I did my Masters (Corporate Communications) and joined a PR agency, which helped me understand how the TV industry worked. Later I joined an acting school and signed up for a TV show. I’am very excited about my Dhollywood move.”

Dhwani Gautam

This former Dilliwala started off doing small roles in films before following his passion and becoming a filmmaker.

It is easy for a director to become an actor,” shares Dhwani Gautam. He further adds, “I was always sure that I wanted to be a director. To be a good director, one needs to understand the nuances of acting, to make actors understand how to emote. Dhwani has been a part of 35 short films, has wrapped up his directorial venture and is now doing a Gujarati thriller.

Niharica Raizada

Niharica Raizada, who recently debuted with Var To NRI J, was a practising cardiologist in Switzerland and the US.

I studied medicine and enjoyed being a cardiologist. Later on, I assisted directors, but was pretty sure that I wanted to be in front of the camera. I have done a course from the New York Film Academy. Initially, speaking in Gujarati was difficult and I would say my Gujarati dialogues like a parrot, but I’ve improved and can even speak a few Gujarati sentences now.”

Abhinay Banker

A well-known name in theatre, Abhinay started off as a photo journalist. Now he’s also turned actor in Gujarati films.

I had always wanted to join the Indian Defence Forces, but couldn’t clear the exams, so, I switched to photojournalism. I had done a lot of theatre in college and turned professional 12 years ago. I have enjoyed every bit of being in theatre. My experience in theatre has certainly helped me become a more confident actor in front of camera.”

LIPI GOYAL

For Lipi studies always came first, but her first brush with acting happened when she was working as a PR professional in Bangalore.

I had very few friends in Bangalore so I banked on plays to keep me busy during my holidays. I shifted to Mumbai and did some theatre there.
Theatre helps you to overcome stage fear. Along with plays, I
started anchoring for corporate events which improved my interaction skills, plus, it certainly helped me be financially independent.”


Raunaq Kamdar

While helping clients build their dream projects, Raunaq’s done theatre and slowly but steadily done some powerpacked roles in Gujarati films.

I have been doing theatre for 15 years now, whilst handling architectural assignments with my father. I also handle architectural projects while I’m working on my movies. My father and brother fill in for me when I’m shooting outdoors. Initially, it was challenging to juggle both careers, but now I’ve learnt the art of multitasking.”