‘He’s a TV actor, what will he do?’: Vikrant Massey opens up about prejudice, confronts bias in Bollywood amid National Award win
National Award-winning actor Vikrant Massey spoke about the prejudice he faced while transitioning from television to Bollywood. Recalling the early days of his film career, the ’12th Fail’ star revealed that many doubted his abilities simply because he came from television.
Reflecting on his two-decade-long journey, Vikrant also spoke about breaking stereotypes, the lasting impact of ‘Balika Vadhu’, and his gratitude for the audience’s unwavering support.Speaking to IANS, the actor recalled how some people doubted his abilities due to his television background. “When I moved from television to film, a lot of people were like, ‘He’s a TV actor, what’s he going to do? He doesn’t know how to work,'” Massey said.Vikrant also shared his views on judging people based on their professional or socio-economic background. According to the actor, a person’s abilities are determined by talent and hard work and not where they come from.“It’s not just television, I think if you’re coming from any socio-economic background, you can’t decide whether you’re capable or not. It depends on your ability whether you’re capable or not,” Massey said.
So I don’t believe at all where you come from or what your background is.”The actor stressed that he never believed that labels or backgrounds should define an individual’s potential.
Vikrant Massey on his two-decade journey
Looking back on his career, Vikrant expressed his gratitude for the constant support he has received from the fans. He said he feels lucky that viewers continue to watch his old projects and recent works after more than two decades in the industry.Sharing his thoughts, Vikrant said, “I think my journey has been blessed. It has been 20-22 years. Sometimes we sit at home and talk about how many years have passed. I am filled with gratitude. I am truly grateful that even after so many years, people are taking their time to watch my old works. They are spending their money to watch what I do. I am truly truly grateful.”The actor added that this appreciation motivates him to continue working faithfully.Speaking about what keeps him going, he said: “This is the only thing that gives you the courage to go out there and give it back to people through your stories or through anything you can do with your limited ability.”
‘Balika Vadhu’ still holds a special place
Vikrant also spoke about the enduring popularity of Balika Vadhu, saying that people still recognize him for his performances even after almost two decades. The actor noted that many viewers are still revisiting the show online, which he considers very rewarding.Over the years, Vikrant has successfully transitioned from television to films, earning appreciation for his performances in projects like A Death in the Gunj, 12th Fail, Sector 36, and the Haseen Dillruba franchise. He was recently honored with the National Award for his performance in the film The 12th Failure.
“The Traveler’s Café” is ready for display
On the professional front, Vikrant will next be seen in ‘Cafe Traveler’, a romantic drama serial directed by Ruchir Arun and written by Sharanya Rajgopal. ‘Musafir Cafe’ is scheduled to release on OTT on July 24.
