The video opens with a nostalgic and emotional reflection on childhood dreams. The host begins by posing a relatable question — what did you want to become as a child? Many children answer with dreams of becoming doctors, engineers, or police officers, but actor Kuldeep Sarin always had one unwavering answer: he wanted to act. From a young age, he felt no connection with academics and was drawn deeply toward cinema. Even during school, he would openly declare his ambition to become an actor, something that was quite uncommon at the time.
Kuldeep recalls his early days, the clarity he had about his passion, and how that guided his path. By the time he reached the 8th grade, he knew acting was his calling. Despite failing in college, he never wavered. His goal was set — to reach the National School of Drama. He shared this with his parents, who, though initially hesitant like many traditional Indian families, eventually supported his dreams wholeheartedly.
He clarifies that while he isn’t a graduate of the three-year course at NSD, he was part of the NSD Repertory Company — a professional theatre group. He spent five years there, shaping his craft and collecting countless memories. One particularly powerful story he shares is about a play in which he wasn’t cast for his desired role. Still, he learned every line and movement of that part. Fate intervened when the lead actor collapsed during a live performance, and Kuldeep stepped in the very next day, delivering the role he had always dreamed of — a moment that seemed written by destiny.
As the conversation flows, he talks about how OTT platforms have transformed the industry, providing a stage for hidden talents like himself who didn’t always fit into the fixed templates of traditional cinema — hero, villain, comedian. OTT gave space for real actors to shine, breaking the mold. He acknowledges the importance of these platforms in democratizing content and bringing forward new directors, actors, and technicians.
The conversation then delves into the topic of "godfathers" in the industry. Kuldeep admits that while having a mentor or patron certainly helps open doors, he never had one. With full awareness of that reality, he came to Mumbai prepared to carve his own path — submitting photographs, visiting production houses, and slowly building his presence brick by brick.
He also reflects on how the struggle is often dramatized. To him, it's all part of the job — something he chose and accepted. For him, going to auditions, traveling by bus or auto, handing out his portfolio — these aren’t struggles, but duties. He makes it clear that when you truly want something and choose a path knowingly, you don't call its hardships a struggle — you call it purpose.
Kuldeep Sarin comes across as a grounded, sincere artist who embodies perseverance. His journey isn’t just about the pursuit of fame, but about staying true to one’s passion, even when the spotlight isn’t always shining.
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