Heital Puniwala Attributes Acting Versatility to Theatre Foundation
Actor Heital Puniwala, recognized for his roles in popular films such as Oh My God, PK, Bang Bang, and Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani, asserts that his grounding in theatre profoundly shapes his approach to acting across various mediums. He emphasizes a flexible mindset, stating, "I am a theatre actor, and I never bind myself to a particular genre. If I get a character, I don't think about whether I am like that or not; instead, I focus on how to become that character."
Embracing Challenging Roles and Personal Growth
Highlighting his readiness to tackle difficult parts, Puniwala adds, "It's not like I can do it well just because it's my type of character. But I dare myself. In Nayika Devi, I didn't fit into any role, but I played Jallad. It took hours to get into a hunchbacked, unkempt look, but I did it because it challenged me." This dedication stems from his journey, having moved from Surat to Mumbai in 2011 to pursue acting while maintaining his theatre work.
Recalling his early struggles, he shares, "Wherever an audition was happening, I was there. I've always believed in carrying a '100-gram smile'. A casting director had rejected me initially, but when I spoke to him with a smile, he gave me a chance to audition—and it worked." This positive attitude has been crucial in navigating the competitive entertainment industry.
Adapting Acting Style from Theatre to Modern Demands
On his evolving acting technique, Puniwala credits his theatre background and personal practices for enabling a natural performance style. He explains, "In theatre, you have to be loud, but I noticed films are moving towards more natural performances. In ads especially, you need that." To achieve this authenticity, he incorporates wellness routines, noting, "Sudarshan Kriya helped me a lot in becoming natural; it brought out my inner ease as an actor."
His ability to transition between mediums showcases how traditional theatre training can enhance contemporary acting, making him a versatile figure in Bollywood and beyond. Puniwala's story underscores the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and personal development in building a successful acting career.
