The rise of OTT platforms is a win-win situation for both viewers and actors. While the former got more options to choose from, it also translated to bigger and better opportunities for the latter. No wonder, even the actors, who earlier went unnoticed in theatrical films, are now gaining fame for their performances in web projects.

Actor Amit Sial, who was part of films such as Phas Gaye Re Obama and Love Sex aur Dhokha (both 2010), came into the limelight after his web projects Inside Edge, Mirzapur and Maharani, among others. “Main toh shukraguzaar hoon OTT ka,” shares Sial, adding, “This medium has been life saviour for many actors like me. It does get frustrating when you don’t get the work you have set out to do, and the wait for getting a film project is so long… So yes, OTT helped me be discovered in a new way for sure.”

Another actor, whose career took off like never before after venturing into the digital space, is Sharib Hashmi. He worked in films Jab Tak Hai Jaan (2012) and Filmistaan (2014) but it’s web projects such as The Family Man, Darbaan and Asur, which helped him revive his career. “After Filmistaan, people, noticed me for the first time. I thought that I had arrived but destiny had other plans. I did sign a few films but they didn’t work out… And as the time passed people started forgetting me. But then because of the OTT platforms people are recognising me again,” shares Hashmi.

Actor Namit Das, who has worked in OTT projects Aarya, Abhay and A Suitable Boy, admits that the web space has helped many actors. “It is a huge avenue that has opened. Here everyone gets a chance to show their potential and explore themselves,” he explains.

OTT platforms have also proved to be boon for those who were struggling for years to showcase their craft. Grahan actor Anshumaan Pushkar admits waiting for six years to get the break. “When you look at films, who’ll give me a break? No one will. And no one did for so long. They want actors to be a certain way and kehte hai ki hum aap pe paisa nahi laga sakte. But thank God for OTT. Mere jeevan ka vardaan hai OTT. Mera career iske wajah se hai,” says Pushkar.

Four More Shots Please! actor Sayani Gupta too, lauds the web space for giving much needed impetus to acting careers of artistes. “We were craving to let out our creativity for so long and all of a sudden the wait is over, all thanks to this medium. As actors, you’re now able to showcase yourself and also not compromise on creativity,” she shares.