Having forayed into Hollywood, actor Ali Fazal says he is thankful to Indian actors such as Om Puri and Irrfan, who have worked in the West for decades to earn a respectable place for brown actors. After making a name in Bollywood, trying to build a career from scratch in a new industry can be daunting.

The Mirzapur actor adds, “Choices don’t come to you on a platter no matter which industry you belong to. And when it’s an industry that’s not familiar with you, your body of work and judging your abilities from their own set notions is an even tougher feat. For decades, master filmmakers and actors have systematically worked towards depicting the real India on screen.” After his Hollywood debut Victoria & Abdul (2017), he is awaiting the release of Death On The Nile and is looking forward to shooting for Code Name Johnny Walker.

“Indian cinema is not only about Bollywood and that’s a barrier that’s been hard to break. I am so indebted to the incredible work of Irrfan bhai, Om Puri saab, Saeed Jaffrey and Shashi Kapoor who have strived to secure better roles and created better opportunities for us. Lead roles have been possible for me because of their contribution and bravery,” he signs off.