MUMBAI : Amit Sarin is a popular name in the television industry. The actor has been part of shows like “Kkusum”, “Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi” and “Doli Saja Ke”, among others. He was last seen on the small screen in Star Plus’ family drama “Nisha Aur Uske Cousins”. In a conversation with us, the actor talks about his journey from TV to Bollywood to Hollywood and his upcoming project “Tiger Heart”. 

Q. From TV to Bollywood and now Hollywood, how do you see your journey as an actor?

A. My best is yet to come, every actor is unique in their own way, the choices one makes leads to their journey. I feel I’m blessed to have survived this far, especially when I have repeatedly challenged myself by not sticking to a comfort zone and going for - “What next?“ After a long career on television, I have started all over again from scratch, here in LA. A journey is more important to me than a destination.

Q. What is your Hollywood project ‘Tiger Heart’ all about? What excited you about the script that you got involved in this Hollywood production?

A. ‘Tiger Heart’ is a story to stop the international mafia cartel from poaching Bengal Tigers, which has brought tigers and many other animals on the verge of extinction. It deals with an important cause, while reminding us that our children will not see these species if we don’t stop. Any story which enhances India’s contribution in global awareness towards such serious threats will be a proud moment for me and Vineesha (Arora Sarin, my wife) as a proud filmmaker from india. 

Q. According to you, how different is Hollywood from Indian film industry in terms of work culture? Were there any challenges you faced while working on ‘Tiger Heart’? 

A. We all know Hollywood is the Mecca of the film industry and that is for a reason. It is system driven and functions as an industry like any other organized business sector. Yes, starting from scratch, was and is still full of challenges and is a conversation in itself but with a good and supportive team backing, we are getting there. 

Q. Are there any Indian filmmakers among the new generation whom you would like to work with in the near future? 

A. It’s amazing to see how new generation filmmakers have a content-driven approach backed with technology. I would love to work with anyone who truly believes in content. 

Q. Is there any dream role or biopic you would like to work on, be it Indian films or Hollywood? 

A. Russell Crowe’s character in “Gladiator” is my dream role.

Q. Having worked in the film and television industry what changes have you felt over the decades? How do you perceive the future of Indian film and television industry? 

A. Change is inevitable and I have seen the approach to content has changed over time. But the biggest challenge we have ever faced is covid, so let’s see how we collectively think and implement the way out and adopt new and innovative measures. 

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Q. Having worked in both the film and television industry, would you like to attempt a collaboration with digital streaming platforms as well?

A. Absolutely yes, I understand that medium very well and it is undeniably the future. I’m in serious conversations about collaborating with streaming platforms. 

Q. In the present scenario film studios have stalled their productions in order to ensure social distancing. In India junior artists and technicians have been affected due to the lockdown. Being associated with the industry, what measures could be adopted in future in order to ensure financial security to daily wagers in the film and television industry? 

A. Absolutely, they should be the first in line to be taken care of during such a crisis. There should be some sort of insurance policy provided by the unions to protect the daily wagers under these conditions. 

(ALSO READ: Amit Sarin on Covid-19 situation: This too shall pass!)