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Actress Reshma Shetty, who currently plays the role of Divya in USA’s hit series Royal Pains, gave CitySaheli an inside look into being a South Asian actress in Hollywood. She also provided tips for our readers who are interested in pursuing an acting career. Prior to Royal Pains, Shetty starred in the first national tour of Bombay Dreams and appeared in off Broadway productions.
CitySaheli: What inspired you to go into acting?
Shetty: Growing up in England, I was always interested in music. I started playing the piano at 7, the guitar at 11 and the violin at 12. It was when I came to America, during high school, and auditioned for honors choir in Virginia and got first place, when I realized I could be more than just a good musician. This experience encouraged me to continue auditioning for musical roles.
I started college as a pre-med student, but continued to try-out for operas and musicals. My sophomore year of college, a teacher approached me and told me I had a unique talent and should pursue a career in music. I listened to her advice, and started with opera. This turned into musical theater and now television. Once I started, I just couldn’t turn back.
City Saheli: Was your family supportive of your decision to go into acting?
Shetty: I come from a family of scientists, so at first it was hard to tell them that I wanted to pursue acting rather than medicine. I have great parents, however, who are very liberal and understanding. My father at first was not happy with my decision, but they trusted me to make the right choice. I remember saying “Dad, if I don’t try this, I will regret it for the rest of my life.” He just couldn’t say no.
CitySaheli: Describe an unforgettable moment during your career.
Shetty: When I was on the Bombay Dreams tour, a little girl came up to me. I asked her, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” The girl replied, “I want to be you.” That was me as a little girl and I realized the impact I am making on young girls’ lives. I will never forget that time.
CitySaheli: What challenges, if any, have you faced as a South Asian actress in the US?
Shetty: I have seen some type casting, but this problem is getting better in the industry. Times are changing and change takes time. The writers for Royal Pains, for example, have allowed me to create a strong female character in Divya. The character isn’t an Indian girl, but instead a strong woman.
CitySaheli: What are your future aspirations?
Shetty: Everything I have done so far has been fueled by blind passion. My goal is to look back and be proud of the work I do. For now I plan to stay with Royal Pains. In the future, I would like to do more movies. It’s a great compromise between theater and television. Through entertainment, I want to inspire others.
CitySaheli: What advice do you have for aspiring South Asian actresses?
Shetty: If acting truly moves you, then you should go for it. And go for it with EVERYTHING. It is really hard work, so be sure you love it. It’s also important to realize that you need to be thick skinned, feisty, determined and persistent in this industry. Also, you need to have a lot of luck. The best thing to do is study. Never stop studying.
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