How Film Stars Struggled in Life | Their 7 Audition Tapes

Don't dream unwisely to be a Bollywood star overnight or in a few months or in a few years.
No way!

It's hard and prolonged struggle where the success rate is 2% or less. Thousands of aspiring actors are roaming the streets of Mumbai for a break! However, the brighter side is that today's superstars are man and women like you and me who by their sheer grit, determination, persistence and perseverance, facing rejections and long periods of financial instability have succeeded. 

So, the question is can you do it?

Superstars of today had to figure out a way into Bollywood and the road was honestly not an easy one. They have come a long way with every role that came in their kitty

But what started it all? 

Take a look at the audition tapes of some of your favorite actors

If you think that big celebrities have always had an easy way into Bollywood, time to break all the myths. Because filmmakers have their own way of ensuring that the characters they have in their films are carefully chosen. "Swades" had beautiful detailing of the characters like Kaveri Amma, Geeta and Mohan himself. Now watch how Ashutosh Gowarikar found his Mohan, Geeta and Kaveri Amma, right here!

1. Shahrukh Khan and Gayatri Joshi's audition for Ashutosh Gowarikar's 'Swades'

We often think that the star kids hardly have to put in any effort in entering Bollywood. But this audition tape of Alia Bhatt, recently posted by Dharma Films on Alia Bhatt's birthday, will change your thoughts! Like any other newcomer, Alia did give an audition for the role in Karan Johar's 'Student of the Year'. Don't believe us? Watch it here!

2. Alia Bhatt's Audition for SOTY won Karan Johar's heart

In a recent interview with one of the news channels, Anushka Sharma revealed her own little secret to Raju Hirani and Aamir Khan by showing them her audition tape for a role in 3 Idiots which later went to Kareena Kapoor.

3. Anushka Sharma's audition for a role in 3 Idiots, which she revealed to Aamir Khan and Raju Hirani recently

Do you know that Chatur was never a planned character in the movie 3 Idiots? Oh yes. Raju Hirani was actually auditioning for Sharman Joshi's role, but destiny had some different plans. People who were auditioning found Omi Vaidya so unique that they spontaneously sketched out the character of 'Chatur' which later went on to become one of the most famous characters from the blockbuster film.

4. Watch how Team 3 Idiots found their character 'Chatur' in Omi Vaidya

It wasn't a cakewalk for the very talented Rajat Barmecha to crack a role in a movie as epic as Udaan. After certain steps of auditioning and convincing the filmmakers, Rajat chose to not look back.

5. Rajat Barmecha's entry ticket to Bollywood was this hilarious audition for UTV's 'Udaan'

Gautam Gulati rose to instant fame with his stint in Big Boss 8. But do you know that he had some other plans for himself too? Yes! Gautam Gulati also took Bollywood into consideration and he auditioned for Aashiqui 2 as well. He was rejected, but he found himself a small space as 'Suraj's younger brother in Diya Aur Baati Hum. Reports have said that he has already signed a film but we are yet to be sure of it!

6. Big Boss 8 winner Gautam Gulati's audition for 'Aashiqui 2'

(Excellent audition-author)

Manjot Singh, popularly known as 'Lucky' of Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye! Auditioned for the role that finally went to Rajat Barmecha. Later he evidently became one of the most popular choices of the UTV Clan because he got roles in films like Fukrey and Shaitan. Manjot also won the Filmfare Critics Award for the Best Actor category for his performance in Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye!.

7. Manjot's Singh had his struggle before he turned "Lucky"

Indiatimes

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7 Things to Do to Be a Super-Star Which Most Don�t Do

Super Star Ranbir Kapoor with award

The super-star and achievers amaze the normal actors and people in every way possible. They have the same 24 hours per day that an average actor has, but they manage to use those hours much more effectively.
Oftentimes, they not only are successful in one particular genre (like comedy, action, drama, love and conflict) but develop incredibly well in most of the types of a genre. Also, be it mental and physical health, relationships and social life or career, these individuals manage them all in an exceptionally good way.
Now, to avoid creating a picture of a perfect human in your mind, these people tend to fail as well. In reality, they fail a lot. However, what separates them from the actor crowd is embracing the learning process and taking notes from every failure.
I have identified after a thorough research and biography eight things they regularly do, which all have a tremendous impact on their stardom

1. They work out daily (yes, daily).

They have a top body and an excellent fitness level.
Don�t get me wrong, they don�t complete a hardcore physical or mental training session every single day. It can just as well be stretching, low-impact cardio or yoga. The key message to you here is not the way of exercising, but the fact that top stars and performers realize the importance of treating their bodies like a temple.
Whereas typical people tend to take care of their physical health intermittently, Super-Stars set it as one of their highest priorities.

2. They schedule their days wisely and strategically.

I�m sure you already know that �to-do lists� are unbelievably helpful. If this strategy would work well, the majority of actors would achieve their dreams. In reality, however, almost 60% never make it and remain actors with a tag of �Strugglers�.
One of the most crucial lessons to stardom is to find out and to ask you a very important question; namely, what�s the one thing I can do well, focus on that and everything else will be either easier or unnecessary?
Once you determine that very thing, you�ll already be ahead of the majority of wannabe Bollywood Actor freaks.
What you need to do is realize and then apply the difference between being effective and being efficient. Whereas plenty of actors want to be more efficient, which means doing things the right way (for example-proper training, good portfolio, monologues, memorizing technique, visiting production houses, registering with good coordinators, audition techniques, running around 10 hours a day, etc.),  intelligent �would be Super-Stars�  focus on being effective, also known as doing what is the right thing for them which they can do better than many.

3. They plan a daily session for learning.

The process of becoming a Super-Star  is a long journey. Some people claim it to be �luck�, but in reality, it�s earned through constant attempts of getting better after each failure. You can�t just sit down and expect to experience a sudden stroke of genius.
What you can do, however, is learning something new every single day.
Just ask to you every morning, �What's new I�m going to learn today?�
When asked about their habits like reading and inquisitiveness habits, almost 90% of successful actors said they read on a daily basis research on the internet for their answers. Reading and researching on the internet is one of the simplest ways to improve.

4. They separate themselves from the negative energy.

If you surround yourself with negative people who waste their time and complain and criticizing everything a lot, there�s no way you�ll ever become a  Super-Star
When your goal is to become a Bollywood or TV serial Super-Star, the best source of inspiration and motivation to keep a company of like-minded individuals who also believe in the journey of self-improvement.

5. They leave their comfort zone, day after day.

If there�s one thing I�m sure of, it�s that successful actors aren�t afraid of being uncomfortable in order to achieve long-term success. Instead of choosing shortcuts and an instant success, they believe and are ready to difficult things like different roles, genre, odd timings, action, singing, dancing, rejections and criticism, financial instability etc.
The reason is simple that amazing things happen like more opportunities if step out of your comfort zone
Great things never come from day dreaming or laying on the bed in your room and drinking beer with favorite snack. They happen once you decide to take action and challenge yourself on a daily basis.

6. They use proper technology and systems.

Instead of relying purely on their motivation and determination levels, successful actors depend on the right technology and systems, which help to self-regularizing their daily routines.
The vast majority of aspiring actors  can�t or don�t use the technology in their favor. Wrong activities on social media like chatting, posting photos for getting �likes�, mobile games or pointless news apps distract them day after day. On the opposite side, though, are intelligent actors who use technology to make their lives easier.
Applications and software help them to manage their time, cut off distractions, get more done and have a better overview of their progress.
Here are some of the examples of useful apps:  Evernote, Todoist, Sunrise, BufferApp, Clean Master (Web, Android) to name a few
The above list will help you to get started (remember, the key isn�t to get them all, but to adopt the ones that work for you).

7. They say no consistently.

Being able to say no at the right moment is a skill which can guarantee your success and happiness. It�s not easy to learn, but it�s absolutely possible. Saying no to one thing is actually saying yes to the other.
Say yes to exercise and diet and you will say no to bad body and health. This rule applies to every area of your life. Saying yes to being a successful actor means saying no to a lot of things, such as distractions and needless commitments.
Inspiration

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8 Sure Success Factors for Film and TV Serial Actors

4 new successful actors who believe in success factors
Aditya Roy Kapoor, Nargis Fakhiri, Shraddha Kapoor, Arjun Kapur

Actor's successful tips from top actors

1. Find Joy and Fun

Once you have a script and your character details (character scenes and lines), enjoy creating the character's life with your imagination. Think yourself to be a 6 year old kid playing, pretending' x ' person, and when are happiest.

2. Learn, learn and learn

Till you die. In today's cut throat competition in Bollywood, TV serials and in commercial ads, you must develop your acting instrument IE body and mind continuously for ever. Better to have a long term acting coach, take classes through good schools, attend theater shows, join acting workshops periodically, attend yoga, gym and join martial arts classes and so on...

3. Don't worry about what a casting director thinks

Auditioning is like dating a girl or a boy. You spend so much time wondering what they�re thinking. They�re not thinking about anything! They�re not thinking about you, for sure. You cannot try to get the job (role). Just go in there, have some fun, and do your version of that part. Think in your mind-"this is what I�m selling. If you want to buy it, that�s cool. Want some adjustments from me? That�s fine, I�ll give you more options of portraying the character, but this is basically what I want to do". That should be your attitude, sort of a �to hell with it� attitude. Not ' to hell with YOU, but 'to hell with IT'
So, just do your best in an audition, go out to a restaurant and celebrate your performance.

4. Risk failure to learn and make new discoveries 

As actors, you become an expert at starting over again and again. Be it be an audition or a shot of your scene on camera. You might have been tense, forgotten your lines, sounding and playing 'flat' or it could be anything. Don't worry. Life doesn't end with few failures, but every time you fail, it gives you an opportunity for an introspective and an opportunity to improve by reworking on your skills.
It's like �Fail and then fail better!� 
Treat auditions like rehearsals

5. Setting and believing in your life goal

Do you really want to be an actor? Is this your life goal or just a hobby or just some other reason
If you have truthfully decided to be an actor to be the sole purpose of your existence, then believe it and follow it with a steely determination and till your last breath. Remember, if you are determined, all other things will fall into shape sooner or later. Permanence, perseverance and persistence in spite of all obstacles, discouragements, and impossibilities: It is this, that in all things distinguishes the strong soul from the weak.

6. Have faith in your director and express gratitude

You must work closely with a director�s vision and be thankful. Whenever you are appreciated for your performance say �When I create a character, I�m doing it with the director. I view it as the director�s creation more than as mine,�...  �And I give credit to the directors as well: If I give a good performance, I give at least 70 percent of the credit to the director.�
That�s just the way to work in a 'team' medium

7. Follow the other things you love

Like dancing, singing, sports, observing people, reading books, working for social causes, volunteering work etc to freshen and rejuvenate yourself.

8. Avoid desperation

Don't be a one of 'helpless mentality actors'. The thing to get rid of is that you are the beggar at the gate, that you are the powerless and helpless eager youngster wanting a break, a role even as a toilet sweeper in a film or a serial. At some point, you have to empower yourself and say �You know what, I�m good at this and can portray any character, whether a simple or the most complex one'.

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What Bollywood Director Anurag Basu Looks in Actors

Bollywood: Anurag Basu with 'Best Director' Award

As a Top Bollywood Director (12 credits)

1.  Jagga Jasoos (filming);  Ranbir Kapoor, Katrina Kaif and Govinda in lead roles
2.  2015 Murdered to Moksha (Short)
3.  2015 Stories by Rabindranath Tagore (TV Series) 
4.  2012 Barfi! 
5.  2010/I Kites 
6.  2007 Life in a Metro 
7.  2006 Gangster 
8.  2004 Tumsa Nahin Dekha 
9.  2004 Murder 
10.  2003 Saaya 
11.  2003 Kucch To Hai (as Anurag Bose) 
12.  2002 Miit (TV Series) 

Why Top Director Anurag Basu Doesn't Believe in Auditions

An Interview 

'Making actors audition for roles doesn't serve any purpose'

Filmmaker Anurag Basu talks about his experience of directing movies and television serials in this extract from a new book by Rakesh Anand Bakshi

What is your process of casting an actor, how do you audition actors?

Anurag Basu: 
1. "Everybody has a unique personality. I seek actors who are naturally close to the characters that I need to cast. If my character has a humorous side and the actor has a similar trait, I will cast him or her easily... Once I find someone close to my character, I have never auditioned that actor.

2. What I usually do is, I have a lengthy talk with the person I am interested in casting; I meet that person two or three times to understand that person better. And during our general conversation I pick up on how he or she talks in real life, what he or she has gone through in life, because these things will never be mentioned on their CV, but will reflect in their personality if they open up to you.

3. You can only know these important but discreet things by generally speaking, to the actors you are interested in working with. I even go to the extent of making myself vulnerable; I share personal secrets with some of my actors to create a natural trust. Because the second step in the process of building an actor-director relationship, or even a writer-director relationship, is to make them trust you completely.

4. Only when you have the actor's trust, will they surrender their talent to your creative decisions, and hand them to you completely.

5. Then I can mold them and bring them even closer to the character I created in my mind...
I believe that making actors audition for roles does not serve any purpose. I cast Kangana Ranaut in Gangster in a similar manner, without any audition. I just chatted with her and soon I knew she could play the character in Gangster very well; and she did. It was her debut film and her performance was appreciated."
Source

Author's Interpretation

Understand your essence (profile), believe in whatever you are. Just be yourself and play a character as you and not copying or mimicking anybody else. You will be selected if your substance, soul, spirit, fundamental quality which makes your 'essence', a 'YOU' matches even to 60%.  A good director then will develop you to 100%

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Learn 9 Lessons from Superstar Hrithik to Be in Bollywood

What it requires to be a successful actor and  to be a star in Bollywood?  

We never do any research, identify the winning factors, learn and practice. Sadly, we continue to remain in our comfort zone of � dreams� and hope that some magic will happen and we will be discovered!
After my long tenure as an acting coach and as an actor, the one man who could be the best learning example for aspiring actors is Hrithil Roshan. Undoubtedly, he is the Best Actor of Bollywood to learn and follow

Why have I arrived at this conclusion?

Here are 9 things that make him the star that he is!

Actors may come and go, even superstars may fade out over a period of time. But, Hrithik Roshan? No way!
He is undoubtedly one of the most noteworthy and consistent actors,. Bollywood has seen in the last few decades.
Everybody loves and adores him. It�s a wonder to see how respect Hrithik has earned from not just his fans, but from the whole film fraternity.

1. Awesome Acting Skills

Acting skills

Right from his first film, the man showed promise of an emerging star. There can be no denying that Hrithik�s performance in every film is applause worthy. He has only improved and maintained excellence from where he started, unlike most other stars who have been inconsistent with their performances.
Learnt to dream, imagine to build his �Characters� and then practice and practice for months!

Apart from his stellar performances in superhit films like �Koi..Mil Gaya�, �Lakshya�, �Jodhaa Akbar�, �Dhoom 2�, �Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara� and �Agneepath�, the man proved his acting prowess with powerful performances. His work speaks volumes about his versatility as an actor, be it comedy, romance or action!

Lesson 1: Learn professional acting craft 

2. Determination and Perseverance 

Determination and Perseverance

Not many know, Hrithik Roshan stammered as a kid.
�Unfortunately, it�s one of those handicaps that is made fun of. Especially kids, you can�t blame them, but they end up being mean because it looks funny. So the childhood of a person suffering from a problem like this is pure hell�� Hrithik once said in an interview. He never gave up. It was ultimately his perseverance and determination that helped him, betters his speech to perfection.

Lesson 2: Develop determination and perseverance. Don�t give up!

3. Hard work

                               Hard work

No doubt to be born to Producer Rakesh Roshan helped him, but he really worked hard to maintain it and to be where he is today. It only takes sincerity and hard work to take luck any further. Be it experimenting with his looks or undergoing rigorous training, the man believes in doing whatever it takes to justify a role.

Lesson 3: Work hard, at least 12 hours a day-breath, eat, live only acting 

4. Style

                                     Style

The moment he stepped into the industry, he literally set hearts on fire with his Greek God looks. It was his personal sense of style responsible for creating a rage among his viewers and fans, something he has acquired over time. To be known as a star, you�ve got to look like one and be it in his films or red carpet appearances, Hrithik always looks a class apart.

Lesson 4: Dress well and decent and take care of your looks.

5. Groundbreaker and Trendsetter

Groundbreaker

It�s our habit to condemn Bollywood while comparing with Hollywood. In such times, Hrithik Roshan did not shy away from attempting a superhero movie the �Krrish� series. In spite of some box office hiccups, you�ve got to give the man due credit for his effort. If Bollywood has a superhero of its own today, it is Hrithik. We may see a lot better superhero films in the coming times, but Hrithik will always be the trailblazer for Bollywood.

Lesson 5: Go on experimenting with everything related to your objective.

6. Incredible Fighting Spirit 

Fighting Spirit 

While shooting some of the most death-defying stunts ever performed in Bollywood for his film �Bang Bang�, Hrithik injured himself so badly, he had to undergo surgery to get a blood clot removed from his brain. There were speculations whether he would ever be able to perform stunts again. But the man fought with incredible determination against all odds and emerged even stronger.

Lesson 6: Be adventurous and take risks. Learn Martial Arts.

7. Dignity

Dignity

The news of his split with his wife Suzanne Roshan broke the media. Hrithik Roshan went through what was probably the hardest time in his life when the media, as usual, blew everything out of proportion, be it the 400-crore alimony amount or Suzanne�s alleged affair with Arjun Rampal. Not only did the man maintain his calm by choosing not to comment publicly, he even came out in support of his wife and cleared all misconceptions with the media about the alimony.

Lesson 7: Be calm and cool even in extreme adverse conditions.

8. Commitment to Fitness

Commitment to Fitness

Hrithik Roshan has been consistently inspiring millions of Indians to have a good and physique and be a  fitter every day. He is not just a heartthrob amongst the ladies, but also a fitness idol to most men. One workout picture of Hrithik Roshan is all it takes to make him trend all over social media.

Lesson 8: Build a �HOT� body with an excellent physique. Join a  gym 

9. A True Gentleman and Networker

Gentleman 

He is a star, has been a part of the most successful film, has women fainting with emotions all over him, is one of the sexiest men alive and is still soooo humble! Be it a candid interview, a red carpet event or a talk show, Hrithik is always a gentleman and earns respect everywhere He is one of the most professional yet warm people in the industry and all his co-stars would swear by that. Superstardom has never gone to his head, and that�s what makes him an even bigger star!

Lesson 9: Be a good human being. Be nice to everybody with a friendly face. 

Article and images courtesy: Source

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Silly Questions from Aspiring Actors and My Answers

Shattered Dreams!

On an average, I get 60 to100 queries or a desperate request a month for a help to fulfill their dream to be an actor, with the following points in common
-I'm good looking and know Hindi
-I'm 16 years old and want to be an actor
-I want to be like Salman Khan or Karina Kapoor Khan
-My friends tell me I look like the hero / heroine. I  want to work in Bollywood
-I get more than 300 likes on Facebook whenever I post my photograph, so I want to be a heroine in Bollywood / TV Serials. Please help
-I want to be an actor, but my parents don't agree. What should I do?
-I belong to middle class/ from a poor family and I can't stay in Mumbai, but I want to be an actor. Help me
-I am 16 years old pretty girl and want to be an actress and want to be very rich. Help me
-I want to be a Bollywood actor and marry Sonakshi Sinha. Tell me how can I

My  2 Basic Replies for all above Questions 

1. Do Research on Internet and by contacting Industry People Before taking even 1 step forward to realize your dreams. Understand the game before you start playing it. Type questions on search engines like "what are the requirements to be a Bollywood actor?' "Should I join acting schools?" "Should I join an acting school or an acting coach?" What are the fees of acting schools?" "What are the success rate for aspiring actors in Bollywood or for TV serials?" Go on seeking answers to your questions.

Then plan and move!

2.  FREE AWARD WINNING RESOURCE
This blog which you are reading now, for aspiring actors is a "TREASUE HOUSE" of information, knowledge and the finest source of learning the acting craft.

This blog is YOUR RELIGIOUS BOOK.  

Your-

Ramayana and Bhagavad Gita

Bible

Qur'an - ?????? ??????

• Read every page of this blog very carefully. There are more than 150 posts.
• Read the home page and everything on the sidebars.

THERE ARE 27 ASPIRING ACTORS WHO HAVE READ THIS BLOG CAREFULLY, PRACTISED AND NOW ARE IN FILMS AND SERIALS

Some of my other answers  

• Good looking and having command of Hindi alone doesn't make you an actor.
• There are thousands of such great looking young men and girls who want to be an actor and are roaming on Mumbai roads without any break in films or serials.
• How it is possible to be an actor when you are minor (Below 18 years) and your parents are not giving you permission? 
• As per the survey by the actors' association, only 8% of struggling aspiring actors get a break in films, among 5,000 people arriving in Mumbai in a month with their dreams to become an actor. Many go back to their towns totally broken, some take up small jobs, some commit suicide and some become alcoholic or drug-addicts. Some of the girls fall victim to the casting couch or fall into the sex racket

Can You...?

1. Sift to Mumbai, permanently.
2. Create financial resources to support you to live in Mumbai for 5 years (Minimum period). On a conservative estimate, you may require a minimum of 2.5 to 3 Lakhs per year based on if you go for paying guest or sharing accommodation.
3. There may be an additional cost of training, portfolio, monologues, show reel, website, registration with coordinators plus transportation.
4. If you can get professional trained by a good school or a professional acting coach. The fees of a good school could be from 2 Lakhs to 9 Lakhs. A private coach would be cheaper and can give you undivided attention for your development.

For All Dreamers Whether in Mumbai or Living Elsewhere

• Check requirements and how to meet them to be a Bollywood Actor:

http://bestactoracademy.blogspot.in/2013/05/sure-ways-to-be-actor-in-bollywood-tv_14.html

• Finally read my following posts which will open your eyes:

http://bestactoracademy.blogspot.in/2013/08/aspiring-actors-want-to-be-in-mumbai.html
http://bestactoracademy.blogspot.in/2015/03/lessons-from-18-bollywood-stars.html

Also read the website mentioned below if you need your personal trainer to make you an actor.

http://topactingcoach.weebly.com

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Lessons from 18 Bollywood Star's Struggle Stories

Who fought a  deadly struggle for stardom

Can you wait for 5 to10 years for a break? Can you arrange sufficient money for living in Mumbai for long periods without a job?

There is no arguing the fact that behind every successful man, there is a woman. But a lesser known fact is that behind every success story there is a period of hardships, failure and misery.

Fame never comes easy, especially for stars. Contrary to popular belief, not all Bollywood stars were served fame and money on a silver platter.

Many biggies like Amitabh Bachchan, Rekha, Madhuri Dixit, Dharmendra faced failure, disapproval and the wrath of sadists but what makes their story worth giving a read is that they went against all odds and came out winners.

The struggle period was long and frightening! Many of them had no house, not even a morsel of food and survived on a petty amount. They never gave up! Just went on kicking with sheer grit and incredible determination.



1. Amitabh Bachchan 
After being rejected by a radio company many times, Amitabh Bachchan used to sleep on a bench on Marine drive during his struggling days. Struggled for 8 years before he was an established star.

2. Madhuri Dixit
She never got positive reviews as a newcomer in Bollywood. People never thought that she would become this big in the industry. Struggled for 5 years before a true break.

3. Boman Irani 
Munnabhai MBBS fame Boman Irani used to work as a waiter at the Taj hotel! Struggle period to be in Bollywood-5 years.

4. Jackie Shroff 
Before becoming a star, Jackie Shroff used to live in a Chawl in Teen Batti, Mumbai and use to walk longer or travel by local train for a role for 6 years.

5. Shah Rukh Khan
The Badshah slept on roads near the Oberoi hotel for many days before he got a role in Deewana opposite Divya Bharti. Struggled for 20 years before his film was a hit- "DDLJ"

6. Dev Anand
This legendary actor worked as a clerk before he became a star. He earned Rs 85 per month for 5-7 years.

7.  Dilip Kumar
During struggling days, Dilip Kumar had no money to shuffle between home and film studios. Former BCCI president PM Rungta would give him money to travel. A story of 7 year struggle.

8. Neha Dhupia
The former Miss India Neha Dhupia used to help models with their shoes backstage for a long period.

9. Akshay Kumar 
Would shuffle between Bangkok, Singapore and India and sell clothes and other products. The Khiladi also tried his hands at aiding people to buy and sell flats, he would cut his
commission in between. Struggled for 5 years before a true break.

10. Dharmendra 
It has been reported that there were times when Dharmendra didn�t even have a morsel of food. Had to face a terrible struggle for years.

11. Manoj Kumar
He made a living as a ghostwriter. He was paid Rs 11 per scene. Struggled for 5 years before a true break
12. Rajnikanth
The God of the south, Rajinikanth was a bus conductor in Bangalore. Struggled for 9 years before was established as a star.

13. Zeenat Aman
Before Hare Rama Hare Krishna happened for Zeenat Aman, she was all packed to return to Germany with her mother as all her movies had failed miserably. Struggled for 4 years before a true break.
14. Johnny Lever 
13. Before Getting His Big Break, Johnny Lever Was A Part Of Kalyanji-Anandji�s Group, But Was Hardly Getting Any Work. In Those Days, One Of The Comedian�s Friends Gave Him A Musical Instrument. Lever Did Not Know Much About It And Gave It To Kalyanji-Anandji. The Duo Started Using The Instrument In Their Compositions And Paid Lever Rs 1,000-1500 Per Month For The Same. Struggled for 9 years before recognition.

15. Irrfan Khan
Early In His Career, The Versatile Irrfan Khan Wasn�t Paid For Some Of The Movies In Which He Acted. The Producers Bluntly Told Him That His Work Doesn�t Merit Any Pay. Struggled for 6 years for a true break

16. Sonu Sood 
While Shooting At Filmcity, Sonu Sood Recently Tweeted That As A Struggler He Once Had A Pay A Bribe To Get An Entry Into The Studio. Struggled for 8 years before a true break.

17. Govinda
Who Used To Stay In A Chawl In Virar, Would Go To Rajshri Studio Everyday, But Was Rejected On The Basis Of Being Too Young. Not Disheartened, Govinda Even Made A Show Reel In Which He Was Seen Acting And Dancing, And Showed It To The Production House. Struggled for 8 years before a true break.

18. Manoj Bajpai
At A Time When Manoj Bajpai Had No Money At All, He Agreed To Do The Serial Swabhimaan For A Mere Fee Of Rs 2,000. Struggled for 7 years.
Source: click here
Source: click here

Author's comments:

The Success Requirements for An Actor in Today's Competitive Envirnment

1. Learning contemporary acting techniques
2. Developing your acting instrument (body and mind)
3. A first grade knowledge of the entertainment industry
4. To be an excellent public relations man or a woman
5. Developing a thick skin to face rejections, sarcasm and insult
6. Excellent command of Hindi and English
7. Knowledge of computers and to be an internet research freak
8. To be a great marketing and promotional guy
9. An access to sufficient financial resources for a long time
10. And finally, an ability  to struggle for years would be a key factor for your success or failure as an actor.

Do you fulfill the above requirements or ready to learn and develop till your death?

Do you have the determination, dedication and persistence for long periods? 

If Yes, then don't lose Hope! Because

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11 Simple Steps You Can Take Today to be a Bollywood Star

How to get noticed by Bollywood

How to Get Noticed by Bollywood to Get a Role

1. Start taking training and don't stop no matter how good you think you are or how good others tell you are, so that when you do put yourself up in front of the right people, you will be ready! Join a good school or preferably, hire an acting coach in the beginning who will focus on you alone.

2. Study Bollywood and TV serial or TV commercial production industry. Find out how it works. Find out who is responsible for casting actors and  what casting directors, coordinators look for in an actor, what the unions do, what the current trends and competition are in the industry, etc.

3. Figure out what your type is (See footnote). Don't jump for any audition whether or not you meet the requirement of a "character" auditioners are looking for. It may lead to your being rejected. This is a concept you need to be familiar with! It will help you direction in  your marketing efforts.

4. Get into your head once for all that acting is a business like any other. Therefore, learn the basic business, networking and self-promotional skills. So important! You need to make sure you stand out from everyone else. You need to be extremely persistent as well!

5. Learn how to audition. Auditioning and acting on set are two different beasts. Auditioning is like getting an entry ticket. It's completely different from the rest of the game.

6. Surround yourself with people who are already doing what you want and NOT with people who are trying to get what you want. You are more likely to learn from people who are already doing what you want to do. So go find them and learn from them!

7. Talk to both working actors, A-who is making a living from acting as well as B- to aspiring actors who have been talking a lot over the past couple of years and really haven't done very much. You can learn from both groups! From one you learn what to do. From the other, you will learn how NOT to be.

8. Stay curious and never ever think you know it all. Be good and humble. You can always get better, whether in your acting technique, auditioning, sharpening your monologue delivery, on-camera technique, learning about the industry or whatever. Never, never stop learning! Continue getting retrained from your acting coach

9. Once you start to achieve some success, help others who are in the same position you were once. You'll see that it will pay off.

10. At some point during all this you should ask yourself (and be honest) if you really, honestly and truly have the passion for acting to DO WHAT IS NECESSARY to succeed. Without that passion much will be lost and it will be difficult for you to achieve the success you desire. And what's more, you probably won't be very happy.

11. Finally, in your journey, there will be periods of considerable financial instability. Have you planned finances for the sufficient period of time? If not, then this could be a bottleneck to your long struggle.

Once you do those things regularly, you are bound to be noticed by Bollywood Industry!

What Type are you?

1. Age 
You don't have to necessarily look at your real age, but instead of the age range you can authentically play.
2. Physical Appearance
 For which character are you physically appropriate? A young leading woman? A young leading man? Irrespective of age, a leading woman? A leading man? A character actor/ comedian? Then there is more specific typing, such as a villager, urban, college student,  army/ police, dirty, divine looking (priest), regional (south Indian, Bengali, Oriental) and so on.
3. Personality depicting your particular attitude
Are you energetic, funny, serious, silly, playful, shy, emotional, quirky, cool, nerdy, friendly, expressive, spontaneous, introverted or extroverted, suspicious, negative, sad, dejected? The list goes on.
4. Inherent inborn nature
Are you strong, powerful, delicate, arrogant, humble, sophisticated, earthy, vulnerable, fragile, offbeat, contemporary, classic, lower class, middle class, upper class, city, suburban, country, executive class, working class, intelligent, intense, competent, independent, soft, hard, winner or loser? Again, the list goes on.

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Check These 16 Signs if You Were Born to be a Bollywood Actor

Actor Baby

1. You could make funny faces and signs before you could speak words

Wow! Actor in Making

2. You could dance before you could walk.

3. You were a very expressive baby.

4. You wrote, directed, and acted in all your school, temple, church or other religious or neighborhood plays. 

5. Even the simplest tasks were performed with great focus and intensity.

6. As a child you always wanted more attention from everybody compared to your siblings (brothers and sisters)

7. You taught yourself how to raise one eyebrow, just so that you could be more dramatic.

8. Not were really interested in studies, but use to dream a lot, create and play with imaginary stories

9. You�ve tried �regular� jobs, but they are so boring.

10. You never were really good at sports.

11. Sometimes people found difficult to handle you

12. You sometimes forget the realities of life like competition, the importance of money, aspirations of parents, relationships etc.

13. You really know how to play a star in a party. 

14. You are always conscious of how you look and dress.

15. You can mimic well what you observe-people, animals, birds and voices

16. Sometimes you become hypersensitive and may make a fool of yourself

NOW 

IF YOU ARE BOEN TO BE AN ACTOR
Still, You Can't be an Actor if You Have Not learned Camera Acting and How to Market and Promote Yourself

YOU ARE NOT BORN TO BE AN ACTOR
Still, You Can be a Great Actor by a Professional Training and Hard Work

+919920991661

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Frustrated and Quitting Acting? 10 Tips for Future and Wealth

Frustrated actor and quitting

Top 10 actresses and actors who achieved stardom and richness. However, they have to slog, face rejections, sarcasm, frustrations and financial instability for periods of 10 to 20 years, barring a few who were sons or daughters or other close relatives of cine world celebrities

10 Tips to Fulfill Dreams to be a Great Actor and Earn Money

A few weeks ago one of my students asked me that she had taken a class, had gone for portfolio, filmed a show-reel cum monologue and now paying a substantial amount for registration to artist coordinators and for promotional website. She further adds that it�s about a year now without and she hasn�t got sufficient acting assignments and money to make a simple living. Career and money management and She wanted to know how actors can prepare a career and  money management plans in today�s difficult economic climate. The best way to do that, is to tie together your economic and career goals.
We all live in times of tremendous economic uncertainties. Gone are the days when a person could work in Govt Services or somewhere else for 50 years and enter retirement with a pension facility and a gold watch. Our business of being an actor has always operated under a system that makes planning even more difficult.

Here�s an example:

Barring few exceptions of payments to top stars,  80% of a movie or TV budget is usually for pre-production, production and post-production, promotion etc. Therefore, logically, writers, studios, production staff, direction dept., related executives and people involved in marketing earn sufficiently well leaving a small amount of actors to earn.

Therefore, unless you make a success within a year and soon become a �Market Actor� with a market value, you may find yourself soon in financial and mental pressures with consequent shattered dreams.
The reality is if the pay scale for actors continues to shrink and that too under increasing cut throat competition, how can an actor hope to set reasonable monetary goals?

Here are my 5 Great Solutions for Career and Money:

1. Only count and consider on money you actually make, not what you think might happen. For example, if you get cast in a trailer or pilot film or in a commercial ad, don�t assume that it will stay on the TV or air for long and somebody will pick me for a film and my career will start with money flowing in. The only money that is real is the actual money you got paid for that pilot or trailer or ad and though it may help, there is no future guarantee for career or finances.
2. Make up a reasonable budget for your living expenses and then look at your average income for the last one to two years. If the money you�ve made does not allow you to pay for the basics, how are you going to live?  Actors don�t always like without being in acting job, but the practical truth is you need to make money to support your acting. Some actors try to write scripts or teach in acting classes this may help you, but you can�t live your life on that.
3. Try some work on the internet-an interesting blog (on actor resources) or try making a short film with your friends with a killer story and promote vigorously on the internet. The costs of such activities are low.
4. Take up acting/ film/ TV related jobs in different depts. Like AD or start a small acting class and teach.
5. Start a different kind of business: Study what the trends are. Open a small shop like a photo studio with a simple camera and lights.
6. Look at things you like to do or are skilled at and put those talents to work: Develop your voice and become a voice over artist, a film or TV, newspaper/ magazine writer or reporter etc., jobs in film distribution companies to name a few options

Ways to Analyze and Plan for Future

Additionally, do a S.W.O.T. (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) analysis for you and prepare �An Action Plan� and linked yearly, monthly, weekly and then daily schedule to meet your one or two careers and financial goals. Chop those years into six-month chunks to evaluate your progress and see if you need to change tactics. Be more concerned about a pattern of movement and progress than the actual achievement of specific things. Keep a record of your progress and how you feel about it.

For example:

6.  If, after one year, you get an actor�s coordinator or an agency and go out on auditions, but apart from three small roles haven�t got a true reasonable break yet. However, don�t take this as a failure. That is progress enough to extend to another year. Sometimes it takes a while for casting directors to get comfortable with an actor and trust his work.
7.  If during the entire second year you get cast total in about 10 roles and maybe even in a small role in big Bollywood banner, this is good progress and you can safely take on another year.
8.  However, if, at the end of two years, you have not gotten any reasonably paid (Rs.1,44,000 in a year) acting work on a TV show, or in a movie or play, put up a red flag. Decide, if it still it your life and living has life and, more importantly, what is the toll it is taking on your sense of dreams and self as a whole?
9.  The third year is a crux year in terms of being honest with you. If there is no forward movement, you need to start looking for alternative acting paths.
10.  If you have been able to manage your �Self� and finances, at the end of the fourth year, ask yourself these questions: Are you a paid, working actor? Can you live on the money you make? Are you enjoying your work you get? Like,Is it enough to play characters who have three lines and no names?
Being honest is not shameful if it gives you a better life. If you chart your career path in coordination with your finances, you will have a clear idea of where you are. You do not want to wake up in 10 years and realize that nothing has changed. You don�t need to give up acting, but find ways to do it in line with a life that is more financially and mentally rewarding. At every step, ask yourself whether your chase is giving enough backing to continue the ride.
It is hard on your mind and psyche to live without knowing  how you will pay your rent and food. Being able to act as an actor is a rare and special gift and there is more than one way (acting) to use that gift. Remain focused on ways and means to earn money so you don�t let your dream to be a �Star� hide and cloud your �reality� and apply breaks to your life!
I know, you are far better than just a dreamer. Source

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Why 90% Aspiring Actors for Bollywood Fail and Exceptions

The Fact File of Actors: Why you Fail And Solutions

1. "The only people who succeed as actors are those who have to be actors". This is something I have been telling people for years. If you can be happy doing anything else in life, you may fail to be an actor.
2. If you start on a doubtful note wondering if acting is what you should try to do, you will fail. Remember, those who have to be actors do not wonder or even care much about those things. They just go out and be actors because they must do that. If you have any reason why you may fail-- lack of money, attitude problems like oversensitive, angry young man/woman, worrying type who easily gets disturbed, language, diction, voice, height, weight color of your skin etc, you may fail. 
3. Many struggling actors keep doing the same thing over and over in spite of their techniques failing, expecting different results.  Those who have to be successful actors go out and be actors because they change themselves and their strategies, mostly on the advice of their personal coach or some industry guide.
4. Acting is not just a career choice; it is a lifestyle choice! It involves a great deal of self-motivation, sacrifice and continued effort. If you are not a good self-starter, if you cannot live without the common comforts and conveniences and/or if you cannot be persistent to stay with your desire for years to be an actor in spite of everything, then you will most likely fail. 
5. For an actor, success is not fame and fortune, success is an ultimate objective his existence.
6. Lastly, my strong views are:  Apart from getting trained from a school (if you choose so), have a coach (mentor) for a reasonable period of time. If you blindly try to become an actor on your own without guidance from someone who knows the Bollywood or TV Serials or Commercial casting game,  your chances for success are diminished.  
7. It won�t be wrong to point out that finding a coach who is willing to help you and then ignoring his/her advice is not only rude, but also is a way to fail. (Based on source)

Bollywood Super Stars Who Failed to Become Successful.

Here are the exceptions that understood their mistakes, persisted for a long period and changed themselves in every aspect of their craft and attitude reaching to the top:

1. As a nobody, Manoj Kumar worked as a ghostwriter at different studios for films and was paid Rs 11 per scene.

2. Much before becoming mega star, Amitabh Bachchan spent some nights on a bench on Marine Drive in Mumbai. It is also well known that he was rejected by a radio company more than once. Big B was not even given a chance to audition. Many a times he was rejected in auditions.

3. Former BCCI president PM Rungta paid for Dilip Kumar�s tram tickets as the struggling actor had no money to go to film studios from his home. After initial rejections he worked on his attitude and was a great star!

4. As a newcomer, Madhuri Dixit got plenty of negative feedback from the industry. Even then reigning star Meenakshi Sheshadri was among those would feel Madhuri did not have it in her material to succeed in Bollywood.

5. After tasting failures in her initially, Zeenat Aman was ready to pack her bag and return to Germany with her mother. She analyzed herself as per a coach and then it happened. She was selected in �Hare Rama Hare Krishna� (1972. The rest is a history!

6. Dharmendra was the winner of a talent hunt, yet he had to bear extreme hardships for a year till �Bandini� came his way. There were numerous days when Dharmendra did not even have a morsel of food, it has been reported. Another story goes that a producer once refused to pay for Dharmendra's taxi fare (His attitude?), following which the actor got very upset. Shashi Kapoor then took him home, and they had lunch.

7. Amjad Khan slogged for 10 years, did some insignificant roles and had virtually no money when �Sholay� came his way in 1973. The day Khan signed the film, his son Shadaab was born. There were also stories that Salim-Javed were unhappy with Amjad�s performance and wanted him replaced. Khan survived all that and went on to create.

8. Sanjeev Kumar, who is rated amongst the greatest actors of Indian cinema, had failed a screen test conducted for a Rajshri film. He was part of numerous C-grade stunt films before turning the tide with some amazement.

9. At a recent event, Shah Rukh Khan revealed that he had to struggle for 20 years to get his super hit. When he came to Mumbai he did not have money to eat. He even slept on the roads for many days near Oberoi Hotel. He and his friends used the Oberoi washroom, behaving as they stayed at the hotel itself. SRK also recalled that in those days he did not even know that there was Mumbai beyond Haji Ali.

10. Govinda, who used to stay in a Chawl in Virar, would go to Rajshri Studio every day, but was rejected on the basis of being too young and with a bad diction. Not disheartened, On an advice from an expert (Coach), Govinda  made a show reel in which he was seen acting and dancing, and showed it to the production house.
Source

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