In a candid conversation, celebrated actor Shekhar Suman dissected the challenges facing new-age performers in Bollywood and beyond. The multifaceted star underscored the pitfalls of instant success dreams and called for rigorous, real-world acting preparation.
Drawing inspiration from Sahir Ludhianvi’s verses, Suman shared his belief in experiential learning. ‘Artists are shaped by societal lessons and raw skill,’ he said. ‘It’s my duty now to steer the upcoming generation correctly.’
Suman pointed out the confusion plaguing youth who prioritize speed over substance. Acting, he clarified, transcends mere presence on set—it’s an intricate fusion of expression, mannerisms, and originality. ‘Uniqueness defines legends,’ he added.
Pushing for structured acting programs, Suman used vivid analogies: ‘Books can’t teach you to swim or pilot a plane, nor can they forge an actor.’ Practical drills are non-negotiable for honing craft.
He also critiqued the erosion of linguistic finesse. Films once echoed with Urdu’s poetic cadence from the ’40s onward. Now, while inclusivity grows, precise diction has faded. ‘Role-specific dialects are fine, but everyday mispronunciations in films, chats, or media are a disgrace,’ Suman observed.
His words resonate as a timely reminder in an industry buzzing with OTT platforms and diverse narratives, prioritizing depth over superficial stardom.
