We had the privilege of hosting Kshitij Pawar, a powerhouse of talent who has made waves in Bollywood with his unforgettable roles. You might recognize him from the hit film OMG 2 or the viral Parle-G ad that took the internet by storm. From struggling in Mumbai to working with Salman Khan, Akshay Kumar, and Pankaj Tripathi, his journey is nothing short of inspiring.
In this episode of The Diffr Podcast, Kshitij Pawar shares his Bollywood struggles, theatre experiences, and lessons from the industry’s biggest stars. If you’ve ever dreamed of making it big in acting, this one’s for you!
Kshitij’s acting journey started during his school days, when he was unknowingly pushed into a cultural event by his father. But the real magic happened decades later, when he took a leap of faith, leaving behind a stable career to chase his Bollywood dreams.
Imagine moving to Mumbai with zero connections and landing a role in a Salman Khan film within just a few months! That’s exactly what happened with Kshitij.
Kshitij Pawar’s Bollywood journey took a major leap when he landed a role in the critically acclaimed Bollywood movie OMG 2, starring Akshay Kumar and Pankaj Tripathi. The film, which made waves for its powerful storytelling and social message, allowed him to work alongside some of the biggest names in the industry.
One of Kshitij Pawar’s biggest career breakthroughs didn’t come from a Bollywood film but from a 30-second TV commercial that went viral!
The Iconic Parle-G Ad – Kshitij’s portrayal of ‘Subbu,’ a quirky South Indian tourist guide, became a household favorite, making him instantly recognizable among audiences. The advertisement became a massive hit, proving that sometimes, TV commercials and digital ads can offer bigger recognition than Bollywood movies!
While the glamour of Bollywood attracts thousands of aspiring actors every year, the real struggle of newcomers in Mumbai is far from easy. Before getting his big break, Kshitij Pawar experienced the harsh realities of Bollywood auditions, financial instability, and intense competition.
From living in cramped PG accommodations with multiple roommates to attending 5-6 auditions a day, Kshitij went through the grueling process of making a name in the film industry. He recalls how casting rejections, financial challenges, and the uncertainty of getting projects often take a mental toll on actors trying to break into Bollywood.
Kshitij Pawar’s transformation from a theatre artist in Indore to a Bollywood actor working in films like OMG 2 is proof that passion, persistence, and patience lead to success. His journey highlights the real struggles of Bollywood actors, the importance of networking, and the dedication needed to survive in Mumbai’s entertainment industry. Want to hear exclusive behind-the-scenes stories and insider tips from Bollywood? Watch the full podcast.