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Feature: Five debutant actors who began as Assistant Directors

Many have said that understanding the nuances of working behind the screen helps in acting in front of it. Taking a leaf out of this book are the young debutant actors of today, who have worked as Assistant Directors in various films before embracing stardom. Here is a list of these young forces who will amaze you with their acting skills and have been recognized as director’s actors.

Shivaleeka Oberoi
Having worked with ace director Sajid Nadiadwala on two films – ‘Kick’ and ‘Housefull 3’, Oberoi learnt the ropes of filmmaking and is now all set to showcase her acting skills in her debut film ‘Paagal’. Starring as leading lady opposite the handsome Vardhan Puri, this is a romantic thriller that will have you hooked.

Meezan Jaaferi
Having taken viewers by storm through his acting in the trailer of his debut film ‘Malaal’ (2019) and his thoughtful words, Meezan Jaaferi has garnered quite a fan following across the country. The new kid on the block worked as Assistant Director on Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s historic film ‘Padmaavat’ after returning from New York post his graduation in acting. The actor is also a trained dancer and martial arts expert.

Karan Deol
Sunny Deol’s son has acting in his veins but he chose to see the workings of a film, the action on a film set and the director’s requirements before he took on an acting role. He worked as Assistant Director on ‘Yamla Pagla Deewana’. Debuting in ‘Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas’ alongside Sahher Bambba, Deol will play hero in this adventurous love story.

Vardhan Puri
Vardhan Puri is one of the few who has worked on multiple films of different kinds as Assistant Director before signing on ‘Paagal’, opposite Shivaleeka Oberoi. From ‘Ishaqzaade’ and ‘Daawat-e-Ishq’ to ‘Shuddh Desi Romance’, Puri has worked with Yash Raj Films, Habib Faisal and Manish Sharma.

Sharmin Segal
Having graduated in acting from Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute in Los Angeles, Sharmin Segal’s keen interest got her the role of an Assistant Director on iconic films like ‘Mary Kom’ and ‘Bajirao Mastani’. Her debut film ‘Malaal’, a romantic drama, has been making the news for its songs and the array of emotions portrayed by this youngster.