Today we’d like to introduce you to Dishani Chakraborty.
Hi Dishani, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was born and raised in India and that’s where I lived until I was 18. I come from a family of actors, my dad is still a working actor in Bollywood and I think for me, that’s how the passion or acting kicked in. Going on movie sets with him, watching him perform was so magical and surreal. I knew from a very early age that this is what I wanted to do. After I finished high school, I took a couple of acting classes in India, but the plan and dream was to move and pursue acting in Hollywood. So I applied to The New York Film Academy in Burbank and that’s when I moved to Los Angeles. And that’s when my life changed. I did a one year conservatory course there, and then I got a work permit for a year. I was auditioning, I did two commercials and I knew for sure that no matter how difficult this journey is, nothing gives me more happiness than being here and working as an actor. I’m currently at my last semester at The Lee Strasberg Institute in West Hollywood. I’m getting my Associate in Acting. Last year (2021), I performed a play (Seminar by Theresa Rebeck) and that was my first time performing on stage. It was the most fun, exhausting but rewarding experience ever! We even had the legendary Al Pacino come to the closing night. We had dinner with him and he seemed to have loved the play. What more can an actor ask for?
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I don’t think the road is ever smooth, and if it is, good for you! You really are God’s favourite child. I think the hardest part for me so far has been getting my visa situated to be able to work in the USA. Even when I had my work permit, it was hard. I went out for so many auditions for really big things, and it took me a really long time to tell myself that what’s not meant for you isn’t for you. And that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. And it doesn’t mean that I’m not good, I just wasn’t right for that part.
What does success mean to you?
For me right now, success is being a working actor. That is all I aspire to be. I hope to one day, and SOON (fingers crossed) be able to call myself a working actor.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @dishanichakraborty
Image Credits
Photographers: Forrest Leo, Ace, Anurag Kubbur
