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MUMBAI : Actor Mayur Lad, who essays Bala in the popular TV show Ek Mahanayak – Dr BR Ambedkar, has come a long way in his acting career and is thoroughly enjoying this phase of his life. Mayur, who has been a part of films and television, talks about his journey in the entertainment industry and how his current show has been a watershed moment in his career.
How did you handle Bala’s role in Ek Mahanayak-Dr BR Ambedkar?
Jagannath Nivangune Ji, who plays Bhimrao’s father, Ramji, in the show, introduced me to the makers of Ek Mahanayak – Dr BR Ambedkar. I have known him for years, and we have worked on many assignments together. I am grateful to him for leading me to this wonderful opportunity. One night, he told me that the producers were looking for an actor to play the character of Bala and that I should audition. Immediately, I sent my audition video, and the next day I got a call from the production team. Rest, as they say, is history. Bala’s character is very popular with the audience. So, I can say that I ended up in the right place at the right time and the right opportunity. It has been a learning experience.
Tell us about Bala’s character.
I am writing Bala Ram, elder brother of Dr. BR Ambedkar. Bala’s character is a shade of gray. He has a kind heart, but his ways and ways are wrong. Playing this character is a challenge I like to face every day. I had to do a lot of homework to prepare for the role. One had to study the character deeply and his personality traits and journey in the show. That helped me a lot to understand the difference between his character and work accordingly.
Apart from Atharva, who is close to him on the sets?
Everyone on set is like family to me. Be our director, all my teammates and the whole team. Even though I am one of the last entrants to the show, the warmth and support has really inspired me. As I said earlier, I have known Jagannath Nivangune Ji for more than ten years, and he has always been very supportive of me. He was a friend, mentor and guide. His advice and suggestions have helped me a lot, and I trust him.
How did your acting journey begin?
Playing has always been fun for me. I used to participate in school plays. However, coming from a middle-class family with no connections in the entertainment industry, I never thought I would achieve success. It was always a dream to see myself on screen one day. I come from a poor family and used to sell fireworks during college. After I graduated, I started selling SIM cards door to door in rural areas. I was planning to do human resources management. I applied for an MBA alongside working as a bartender at a 5-star property for a year. But that fell apart as my grandfather’s health deteriorated. I was very close to him, and I remember him telling me one day in the hospital, “Why don’t you follow your dream? You are a great actor, and acting is your calling.” His words inspired me to become an actor, and I started doing auditions. Finally I got a real show. That’s how it started. And now, when I look back, I’m glad I took my faith.
Was it easy to find a place in the entertainment industry?
Not at all. I had to do a lot of auditions to get through. After my first break in a reality show, I was opened a window of opportunities in various Hindi and Marathi serials, movies, and commercial films. And then there was no looking back. Everything fell into place. However, I was quickly disappointed. In 2003, Mom passed away, and I took over most of the family responsibilities. I needed a stable source of income to support myself and my family. So, I started looking for a full-time business job. But as luck would have it, I started getting offers in high quality Marathi shows, and after that there was no looking back. Ten years have passed since I started acting, and I have come a long way. It has been a rollercoaster ride. Thankfully I never lost my job and got opportunities to prove myself. Another aspect that always worked for me was the attitude that no part is too big or too small or waiting for the big break. Just keep doing your work with all truth and faith, and the right opportunity will knock at your door when the time is right. The most important thing is your dedication, hard work and dedication. Recognition follows.
What did your family say about your decision to become an actor?
It is very difficult for a middle class boy to choose between a steady income and following his passion. But I don’t regret any of it. It was a tough choice, but I’m glad I made it. At first, my family was worried about the instability as I had a lot riding on me in terms of financial responsibilities. I have a typical Maharashtrian family who wants me to get a permanent job with good salary. But destiny had other plans, and I’m glad that I met amazing and supportive people who helped and guided me to make it in this industry.
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