the guy came from usa as anant friend

Describe your experience on set?
My experience on the set was one of the most memorable experiences of my life. The moment I landed on the set, I was treated like a prince from New York. Starting from being picked up by a Star Plus representative, who stayed with me to guide through the short whole day, to being given a personal vanity room, spot boy and a makeup artist, it was everything anyone would dream of on becoming a star!

How was it interacting with famous soap stars?
Expectedly, I started off nervous and a little intimidated util I heard them speak! I was floored by their humbleness and willingness to help someone new. They went out of the way to explain the scene to me and literally acting out my lines prior to every take. Navya (Soumya) was incredibly sweet and Anant's mother was quite inspiring – I got to know about her passion for the industry and how she left a career in London to go pursue her dreams. I was very motivated by their energy and dedication.

How was your overall experience with Star TV?
From the day of the audition to the end of the shoot, Star TV has been a constant companion and a generous provider – I cannot thank Star enough for giving me an experience, which is very rare for anyone to get. Their professionalism is second to none and the passion to entertain is pervasive in everyone attached to them – from the actors, to the crew and staff. I can safely ascertain that my experience with them has turned me into an ardent loyalist and a lifetime Star TV evangelist.

What was the most memorable experience in India?
My most memorable experience has to be the one on the day of the shoot. Obviously I was having a gala time with the acting, but I took time out to personally interact with every member on the set. And I was amazed. Starting from someone who left a flourishing career in London for acting to a part time doctor who did this for fun, the sheer passion in people surprised me. I also realized the scope of employment opportunities created as a result of a successful TV soap. While watching we do not realize what goes on behind the camera and how many people collaborate to make a 30 minute program. A lot of them can make a sustainable living out of a successful series such as Navya – something which uplifts the industry and also the economy.

How did it feel to be chosen to represent the U.S. as an actor?
Proud! I immigrated to the U.S. eight years ago and never thought one day I would be able to represent America in my own country – with the sheer amount of talented Indians, I just feel humbled to have been the lucky, chosen one.

Do you plan to continue acting?
Yes. I am enrolled in the Stella Adler Acting School and plan to continue scouting for opportunities in Indian theater & movie circuit in NYC.

What would your advice be to aspiring artists?
Go all out for it! There are times where we are awed by big names and under confident of our own abilities. Undoubtedly having a proponent like Star TV helps a lot and my advice would be to find such a platform and then be nice and humble to use it for your progress. Never forget that it has to be a win-win situation for both the performer and the channel.
How did you prepare for the audition?
I really didn't! It was an impromptu decision to participate. I remember it was a rainy day and I was outside rehearsing the script – one thing I felt confident of was that I was going to be myself. It is important to understand the character but always have a personal touch – and that's what I did. I even improvised on the dialogs in English but maintained command on Hindi- which perhaps did the trick.

How was the overall audition process?
Competitive! There were at least 5-700 people auditioning that day if not more and kudos to the actors – Bhairavi Raichura & Jiten Lalwani -- for persevering all day and carrying it out so beautifully! Building a state of the art studio in the midst of the Diwali festival venue on South Street Seaport in NYC is in itself an indicator of the professionalism of the crew.

What made you start acting?
I used to do a lot of theatre in school and participated in several musicals. Thereafter, the hobby really got subdued in the grand scheme of life. The recent experience has rekindled my interest and I wish to pursue it with renewed gusto.

Who/what was your inspiration?
I look up to Robin Williams, Jim Carrey & Robert DeNiro in Hollywood and Naseeruddin Shah & Pankaj Kapoor in Bollywood.

Who is your favorite actor?
Amitabh Bachchan!

Who is your favorite actress?
Tabu & Rani Mukerji

What challenges were you faced with, both during the audition and on set in India?
Really none, whatsoever!

Tell us something more about your family and their support of your pursuits.
My family is whole-heartedly supporting my acting pursuit and the possible relocation to India if needed.

Saurabh's Profile:
Name: Saurabh Arora
Age: 31
Hometown: New Delhi
Hobbies: Scuba Diving, Swimming, Backpacking, and Traveling
School and/or Work: Cornell University / Pepsi, New York
Favorite Shows: Satyamev Jayate, Sasuraal Genda Phool, Navya
Favorite Food: Indian / Mughlai
Zodiac Sign: Pisces