Vivek Oberoi, known for his impactful performances, recently shared insights into his challenging early career in an interview with the Indian Express. Reflecting on his journey, he revealed that he turned down a film his father had planned to launch him with, opting instead to carve his own path.
Vivek Oberoi’s decision to walk away from a Bollywood launch planned by his father marked a defining moment in his career. Despite the security and support, he chose to leave the opportunity behind, feeling a strong need to prove himself based on merit. This decision led to an 18-month struggle filled with rejection and uncertainty, but Vivek sees it as a badge of honor. “I walked away from that opportunity, struggled for 18 months after that, and faced a lot of rejection, but I am proud of that choice,” he shared.
The Challenge of Breaking Into Bollywood
Debuting with the 2002 film Company, Vivek’s early career faced a major hurdle when he was initially rejected by director Ram Gopal Varma. The director felt that Vivek’s polished and educated appearance did not align with the gritty character of Chandu, a slum-dweller. Determined to prove himself, Vivek was undeterred and requested a final meeting with Varma.
To secure his role in Company, Vivek took an unconventional approach. Rather than going home, he rented a room in a nearby slum and stayed there for three weeks. Immersing himself in the environment, he observed and recorded the speech and behavior of the locals to refine his portrayal of Chandu. To complete his transformation, he enlisted the help of a struggling photographer, promising him the opportunity to shoot his first magazine cover if he succeeded.
For his final meeting with Varma, Vivek was fully committed to his character of Chandu. Dressed in worn-out slippers, ill-fitting pants, and a torn vest, he even carried a beedi. Arriving at Varma’s office, he exuded confidence and slammed his character-driven photographs on the desk. His intense, unwavering performance impressed the director, who immediately offered him the role. Even as Varma asked him to stop smoking in his office, Vivek stayed in character, highlighting his dedication to the role.
Working with the visionary director Ram Gopal Varma was a dream realized for Vivek, making his gritty journey worth every step.
A Period Of Absence On The Silver Screen
Meanwhile, on the work front, Vivek Oberoi has been largely absent from the silver screen recently. His most recent appearance was in the 2019 biographical drama PM Narendra Modi.
This defining period in Vivek Oberoi’s career not only shaped his path but also solidified his place in Bollywood, proving that determination and resilience are key to success.
