‘When content wins, everyone wins’

It is always a proud moment for any school when its alumni become a celebrity. Today is one such proud day, as Rohit Raaj, an alumnus of Apeejay School, Kharghar and popular Bollywood actor, speaks about his golden school days. 

Rohit whose film Mystery of the Tatoo won him much acclaim emphasises, “Content is the rightful king in modern India.” He further exclaims, “Now is the best time to enter the industry; there is work for all and the stereotypes for a hero built are fast fading away. This is the age of experimental films.” 

During an interview with Apeejay Newsroom, the Apeejay alumnus talks about his journey of becoming an actor and how Apeejay School, Kharghar supported him throughout. Read edited excerpts:

Rohit, when did acting ke keeda bite you?

Well, it happened when I was in class 5 or 6 at Apeejay School, Kharghar. It was so fascinating for me to see people on the TV screen at home that eventually my parents gave me a bit of push in this direction. Then I started working in TV serials as a child artist. Soon, more work began coming in,

Which serials did you feature in as a child artist?

Kahaani Hamaaray Mahaabhaarat Ki by Balaji Telefilms. It was aired on StarPlus TV channel.

That is fantastic! So, how did your school support you in those days?

I was on shoot for many days consecutively. The then Principal sir and my teachers helped me cover the syllabus in the school and ensured that I could balance studies along with my passion. They made me feel supported and never frowned upon me. They truly supported me in chasing my dreams and I will always remember that.

Did you do any professional theatre or go to any acting institute later?

Yes I did. After completing my B Tech in engineering, I did Masters in film acting from Barry John acting studio in Mumbai. Then I went to the Pondicherry Actor’s workshop with Adishakti theatre, where I completed more acting courses.

Tell us some of the big names you have worked with?

Arjun Rampal, Daisy Shah, Amisha Patel, Tigmanshu Dhulia and Poonam Dhillon.

Wow! Quite a lot of stars! So, what’s the one thing outsiders entering the film industry must know about?

You must have patience, in this industry or any other. Most people don’t have a filmi background or network. So, have patience and work. Remember, everything happens with time. My journey began from 2005, from my school years and finally now it is taking shape like the way I wanted. After 18 years! So, things take time but keep working on yourself. Things will eventually work out. 

And when was your first selfie or autograph?

September, last year to be precise. That was when my first film released in limited screens and a few people recognised me from that, it was a very rewarding moment!

Best part of being an actor?

My parents could see my film in the theatre. The pride in their eyes outlives all the fame and money. It is a big tribute to all their sacrifices. 

Rohit, do share some special anecdotes of any school life play memories?

Once, one of our school teachers came with the idea of doing a skit on the annual day. We presented the skit like a flash mob and it was liked by people. Soon, it was regularised as an activity in the school and acting was also added to the list of extracurricular activities in school. 

Movies are changing now and the audiences are becoming wiser, your take on this?

Content is winning finally! Lot of channels have started experimenting with films and series and I feel the best content is available now. Most importantly, it is breaking the notion that films are the only big thing. Web series like Panchahyat and Gullak are turning out to be bigger than films. Content will take over and everyone will be a winner!

Lastly, how does one enter the industry and become an actor?

When I entered the industry, there was no social media. Now is the best age and  time to enter the film industry. Now OTT platforms are here, it is no longer the case that only tv serials, films or ads are dominating. Now so much work is available for everybody and especially for every look. The idea of the hero with a certain body built is fast fading away. Also, the training  courses are available for free on YouTube. So, you are one click away from what you want to do!