Honing their craft

Bollywood has seen many aspiring actors rise to fame through sheer talent and hard work. However, some have chosen to refine their craft by studying at prestigious international institutions. Here are five actors who studied acting abroad, enhanced their skills and brought a touch of global flair to the Indian film industry.

Deeper understanding: Janhvi Kapoor

Janhvi Kapoor has quickly made a name for herself in Bollywood. Following in her mother’s formidable footsteps, Janhvi decided to pursue professional acting training at the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute in California. Known for its rigorous curriculum and method-acting techniques, the institute has honed her skills and helped her imbibe a deeper understanding of her roles. This international training has equipped Janhvi with a nuanced approach to acting, evident in her performances in films like Dhadak and Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl.

Artistic range: Akshay Oberoi

Akshay Oberoi is another Bollywood actor who sought extensive training abroad to polish his craft. He started at the Stella Adler Studio of Acting in New York City, known for its emphasis on bringing out the unique voice of each actor. Oberoi didn’t stop there; he further studied at Playhouse West in Los Angeles, learning the Meisner technique — a method that focuses on genuine, truthful performances. Additionally, Akshay studied under John Astin, famous for his role in The Addams Family, and broadened his artistic range by training in ballet, jazz, and hip-hop dance at Broadway Dance Center. His versatile training is reflected in his diverse roles in films and web series.

Method acting: Ranbir Kapoor

Ranbir Kapoor has always been surrounded by cinema. To stand out in such a renowned lineage, Ranbir pursued method-acting at the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute, a school famous for its alumni like Al Pacino and Robert De Niro. This training has contributed significantly to Ranbir’s performances in films such as Rockstar, Barfi, and Sanju. His ability to delve into his characters and bring them to life is a testament to his rigorous training and dedication to his craft.

Comic timing: Riteish Deshmukh

Known for his impeccable comic timing and versatility, Riteish Vilasrao Deshmukh also honed his acting skills at The Lee Strasberg Theatre Institute. This training has not only polished his acting abilities, but also allowed him to explore a wide range of genres. Riteish’s performances in films like Ek Villain and Housefull series show his ability to blend humour with depth, making his characters memorable and engaging.

Solid foundation: Sonam Kapoor

Sonam Kapoor has carved her niche in Bollywood with her fashion-forward choices and strong screen presence. She studied Arts and Theatre at the United World College of South East Asia in Singapore, which provided her with a solid foundation in the performing arts. This education has helped Sonam approach her roles with a refined artistic sensibility, whether it’s in commercial hits like Raanjhanaa or critically acclaimed films like Neerja.

(As told to Dharam Pal)