Bali beckons

Recently, there has been a spate of Indian TV actors making their way to act in the Indonesian TV industry. And these talented artistes are doing quite well. Some of the popular actors in the South-East Asian country are Shivin Narang, Mrunal Jain, Shakti Arora, Tejasswi Prakash, Namish Taneja and Daljeet Kaur among others. Here’s a look at this new phenomenon…

Why the sudden popularity in Indonesia?

The trend started when Rani Rajesh Jagtiani of PT Spectrum Films, started bringing in Indian actors for Indonesian soaps. Talking about it, she says, “We approached a popular channel called Antv in 2013 with a proposal to broadcast Indian Programs. Initially they were reluctant, but due to our persistent convincing, they were willing to take the risk.”

However, the risk paid off, and now TV stars are a rage there. She explains, “We first started by airing the series Mahabharata, which proved to be a tremendous success as far as ratings were concerned for Antv. From there on, there was no looking back. While this was happening, we started acquiring a lot of dramas like Uttaran, Navya, Thapki, Meri Ashiqui Tumseh Hi Hai and Tumhari Pakhi and many more.” Here’s what actors have to say

Good work environment: Mrunal Jain

Mrunal Jain, the hunk who was one of the initial TV actors to gain popularity in Indonesia, says, “Indonesia is fantastic in terms of opportunities. The adulation I am getting is extraordinary. I am happy that I decided to take up the opportunity. To be frank, the money is good too and the work atmosphere is fine. We have a liaison office who interprets the language for us, so it’s easier. My wife Sweetie is with me here, and we live in an apartment with a proper kitchen and all. It’s just like home.”

Language no bar: Dalljiet Kaur 

Dalljiet Kaur, who is also popular in Indonesia along with actor Barun Sobti courtesy Rani Rajesh Jagtiani, initially went for four days. This was Dalljiet’s second visit to the country. She was in Bali last November to celebrate her birthday. Much to her surprise, the actress was quite surprised by the experience. She says, “It was crazy! Every single person watches our show here and the crowd is so emotionally attached to us. They love our characters on the show. We were part of a reality show called Academy 4 as judges. It is as popular as American Idol there, and the contestants were fabulous.” 

Exploring ideas: Shashank Vyas 

I am going to Indonesia for the first time. I have heard Balika Vadhu is a rage there. I keep getting messages from Indonesian fans. I am going with my father. I am looking forward to explore Indonesia. I am open to the idea of doing Indonesian series as well.

Second time lucky: Shivin Narang

The good looking actor Shivin Narang is currently in Indonesia shooting for a TV show. “This is my second visit here. I made few friends in my earlier trip, so it’s like coming back to a known place. It feels great, because fans are really excited, given that my earlier show Veera was a big hit here.”

Planning ahead: Ssharad Malhotraa 

I have been getting calls for a visit to Indonesia for a while. Somehow due to hectic shoot schedules of Kasam Tere Pyar Ki, it didn’t materialise. I have heard about Indonesia boom and looking forward to visit this year only.