On the occasion of Teacher’s Day, some well-known actors open up about the people who have guided them, inspired them, and taught them valuable lessons in life and career. From parents to colleagues and seniors in the industry, they share heartfelt stories of their mentors who became their true teachers.
Shivangi Verma :
In my life, my biggest mentor has been my mother. She has always guided me with patience and honesty. I still remember once before an audition, I was very nervous and almost ready to give up. My mother sat with me and said, ‘Even if you fail, at least fail trying.’ That line stayed with me forever. Because of her, I have learned to face every challenge with courage and not run away from it. She is my teacher for life.
Anupam Bhattacharya:
In my life my mentor is actor Rakesh Bedi. I have forever looked up to him as my mentor and guide in my initial days as a struggler in this industry. I remember my first audition, where I felt extremely confident but froze as soon as the test started. I was miserable and couldn’t understand why words wouldn’t come out of my mouth. He is one who taught me how to approach a scene and face the camera as a professional. Lessons that I carry to this date
Anupama Solanki:
In my journey, my mentor has been one of my senior colleagues from the industry. I remember during my early shoots, I was very confused about how to face the camera naturally. He told me, ‘Don’t act, just react.’ It sounded so simple, but it completely changed how I performed. From that day, I started enjoying my work instead of overthinking. That senior will always be my teacher in acting.
Sushmita Banik:
For me, my biggest mentor has always been my father. Even though he was not from my professional industry, he has been my life’s teacher in ways no book or classroom could ever explain. I still remember, once in school, I had to give a speech on Teacher’s Day in front of everyone, but I just couldn’t do it and started crying. My father then told me, ‘You don’t have to be a writer. Your heart is pure, so just speak what you truly feel about your teachers. They love you, and they will understand.’ I followed his advice, and trust me, even today my school teachers and friends shower me with so much love.
Ajay Gehi:
I don’t have a mentor or a guide in the industry, but my parents have been my teachers of life. The greatest teachers for anyone can be parents, life experiences and books. A good mentor or a teacher is hard to find, but the right one can give you a road map to life so you don’t make the mistakes people make, you know when to slow down or when to speed.