Nishi Munshi

“Pageants are strong promotions of well-rounded women and endorse positive change in our communities” – Nishi Munshi

Nishi Munshi was crowned Miss India California back in 2006. However, the model, actress, dancer, singer—is there anything she can’t do– still believes she has much to do before she can even consider herself as established. And if you’re wondering if where you’ve seen her before, she was one of the few South Asians on the popular dance program, “The Superstars of Dance.” But apart from indulging in the entertainment business, she also has a keen belief in supporting and inspiring the South Asian youth in America. Using her knowledge and hindsight of walking the ramp and studying Pre-Law, the young, sincere, and rather spiritual pageant winner speaks to Roshni Magazine about walking from ramp to ramp, her future endeavors and what it takes to be an recognized South Asian personality.

Have you always wanted to be a model?

Modeling just fell into my lap. I come from a family that is extremely enhanced in the arts of music and dance; composing, writing poetry and so on. I was asked several times to do modeling for various events, but I pride myself the most on my acting and singing skills.

What made you pick up a form and decide to be part of a pageant? What were you previously doing?

I was crowned Miss India California 2006.  From my previous supporters, I was encouraged to take the next step and represent our rich and cultural South Asian Community in the Miss California USA 2010 pageant on NBC. Prior to this, I was doing a lot of work in Hollywood while simultaneously getting my degree in Pre Law-Political Science with an emphasis in International Relations.

What was the experience of walking down the ramp and finally winning the 2006 Miss India Crown in 2006?

I was truly in awe! I was always the sporty, awkward girl growing up (laughs). It was those causes that I wished to push forward that led me to this pageant. And to be seen as an all around beauty inside and out, was not only a great responsibility, but an honor. I’ve always wanted to be in a positive and proactive role model for young children and especially the South Asian youth. It was amazing being crowned and being given the ability to do so.

What is the most challenging part of being in such a cutthroat competition?

The most challenging part of being in such a cutthroat competition is definitely staying on top of your game consistently. It means working out, staying healthy, continuing to pursue the platforms you support, keeping up with school work and community service. It also meant using my business networks for marketing and promoting myself as a symbol for positive influence to our youth. One of the most challenging parts of this competition is controlling your sense of self and self image. A lot of women struggle with self-confidence when it comes to pageants and competitions. However, it is important to remember to respect yourself, do the best that you can do, and be strong in your convictions.

What is your favorite memory from the 2006 pageant?

My favorite memory was being around so many intelligent and wonderful young women. I absolutely adored my suitemate. We are great friend now.  Every young woman there was so fruitful in their own talents and abilities, that it was a constant learning opportunity for me.

How do you convince skeptics and feminists that such competitions do not degrade women?

On the contrary, competitions like these take a great deal of discipline similar much like that of any other sport; a lot of eating right, constant reading, being up-to-date on current events, keeping positive relationships with sponsors and supporters. They do not degrade women, but rather create a healthy platform for women to present their best.  It takes many honors, achievements and constant hard work to even be considered for a prestigious pageant like this.  Being one of the only South Asian women being accepted to compete in the upcoming NBC broadcasted Miss California 2010 Pageant is a complete honor.  Pageants like these are really strong promotions of well-rounded women who stand as role models and examples to strengthen and endorse positive change in our communities.

What stereotype associated with woman pageant do you feel is most wrong? And how have you tried to correct it?

The biggest misconception with women in pageants is that they are poorly educated.  When I won the Miss India California 2006 crown, my competitors were college graduates from Berkeley, some pursuing their masters degrees and I myself, a pre-law graduate from the University of California system – the most highly recognized public school system.  I have tried to steer audiences away from this thought by taking part in similar pageants and also making it a point to show my support in other educational, community service and education-inspiring events.  When people see my face at events and organizations that they are also supporting, they start to change their mindset and move away from the stereotype they once held typically about women in pageants.

Your dream is to make it to the nationals – Miss California USA or Miss California Teen USA. What sets you apart from the other contestants who are vying for the same title?

What honestly sets me apart from other contestants is my versatility.  I do not believe in just sticking my door in one place and not paying attention to other things.  I am an entrepreneur – promoting and running my parents’ creation “The nation’s premier Indian Music and Dance Academy”.  I am constantly in the studio recording songs to my upcoming album.  I teach music and dance daily to my wonderful and inspiring students.  I completed my bachelor’s degree a year early, in order to pursue a career in entertainment.  I am constantly driving for more; my hunger never runs out. Typically, when other people would give up, I come out with a fired up tank of energy to pursue the next goal to benefit myself so that I can help my community, and anyone who’s watching!

How do you prepare for such an event?

I do a lot of spiritual preparation. I meditate and do yoga on a regular basis. It is just as important to have a sound mind as it is to have a sound body.  I rehearse questions with my close friends in order to be prepared to answer any questions, continue to make my appearance in the community and keep up with all of my community service activities – which keep me grounded, including Sahara Organization.  I eat very healthy and work out regularly with a trainer, or practice my Tae Kwon Do and Karate.  Most importantly, I have fun!  Whenever I can’t work out, I just put on my ghoongroos and rehearse Kathak, which I learnt for nine years or Bharatnatyam which I learnt for four years, or even get together with some old dance partners and have a blast!

Why did you choose participating in a U.S. based pageant rather than Miss Femina in India where you could have potentially been more successful?

I feel that the Miss Femina pageant in India is a fantastic platform for Indian women.  However, I feel that it is overdue for South Asians to make their mark in America.  I was born in India and raised in America.  I always call myself a “halfy”.  I do all of my vrat (fasting), go to temples; know the languages and the deep, rich and traditional culture. But I am just as much American. I was a scholar athlete in high school, in a prestigious sorority in college and attended all of my school dances, events and excelled in my school clubs.  I was the president of the Asian Indian Student Association in college, but also the pledge class president of my all American sorority throughout college.  I’ve been fortunate enough to have the best of both worlds, and I want to encourage America to continue embracing the Indian culture. This is the sole purpose of my pursuit for excellence in my arts.  I play the tabla and harmonium, but I still love playing the drum set and singing R&B.  I’m like sitar meets guitar!

What do you hope to gain from being a model and pageant winner?

The highest fruit of this hard work would be to continue the act of America embracing this beautiful Indian culture and vice versa.  I wish to be a positive role model for South Asian youth and all other young people.  I want them to point up to the television screen and see someone that looks like them, doing something that one day they may choose to do.  I wish to have our community be more aware of issues in our society that need immediate attention such as youth violence and encourage youth violence intervention through the arts. Most importantly, I wish to stand as that girl next door – which I am, who grew up in America having a dream just like everyone else, and was able to achieve it.

Would you like to join films eventually? Bollywood or Hollywood?

I would love to join films eventually. I really enjoy acting, and I feel that some roles that I’ve played and wish to play touch the hearts of so many.  Bollywood and Hollywood would both be exciting opportunities to embrace. I’m already working in Hollywood, and recently being honored to represent ESPN as one of their lead models in a grand event that they hold, it would be interesting to experience how the entertainment industry works in Bollywood as well.

What inspires you on a daily basis?

I am inspired on a daily basis by my family.  I am inspired by very little things around me.  I try to learn from everyone and everything— as simple as it sounds.  When I wake up, I see an army of ants working hard, that inspires me.  We have a three-legged cat in our neighborhood who visits me every day, which inspires me.  My parents and their struggle inspire me.  The goodness in others around me, inspire me.

What is your fitness regime?
I work out three to four times a week for a couple of hours. I eat very healthy, mostly organic.  I stay away from meat and usual candies. But most importantly, I make working out fun.  I teach dance, I rehearse Bollywood, classical Indian, or salsa dancing.  I practice Tae Kwon Do at the gym with my trainer or fellow martial arts instructors.  I love yoga and riding my bike. It’s always important to switch it around, trick your body and enjoy yourself. Being active in fun and interesting ways is my fitness regime.

What would you tell a young girl who aspires to be like yourself?

Don’t give up on a goal, or dream. If something is meant for you, your hard work will pay off.  It’s okay to be unsure, but always recognize and respect your well-wishers and realize that to be excellent in your field of interest, you must learn to say no to things you want to do, in order for you to say yes to things you need to do. Self-discipline is key and self-reflection is healthy.

What is coming up next for you?

I’m working on a music album.  I hope in the future to continue studying law, but for now I am happy working in the entertainment industry and I’m excited to see what’s in store for me next!

And what will you definitely do if you win the national crown?
I will definitely make it a point to promote the issues that need immediate attention in our society.  I will use it as a tool to promote healthy self-awareness in young women, and I would love to support as many organizations that support the needs, and wants of our youth.  I want our youth to know about culture, and the beauty of self-worth aside from what they see just on Television. The media does have its positive roles, but the negative suggestions of self-doubt overpower at times, and I would work my hardest to stray away from these negative suggestions.

~ Roshni
(August 2009)

“Stand for Something, Or You’ll Fall for Anything”

Summer is finally here! I’ve always been an advocate for summer – it’s much easier to keep cool rather than warm I reckon. But make the most of the summer sun and bask in all its heat. Enjoy!

I had an interesting conversation with a friend the other day and during our discussion, he reiterated a quote to me, “Stand for something or you’ll fall for anything.” That quote got me thinking. We all enter this world unsure of what the future holds for us. Over time, we develop interests, likes and dislikes, potential viable career options which are either shot down by parents or we simply lose interest in. Ultimately, we find our calling in life. However, how many of us look beyond our daily mundane work and actually decide to take a position on a subject or issue? And even if we form a strong argument for or against it, how many of us actually go out, voice our opinions and make a difference?

Recently, I have realized an essential need to help change the way I think and function. The whole world is on a change rant. Everyone from Barack Obama to Priyanka Chopra, all believe they have what it takes to make necessary changes in the world. But ultimately, it lies with the majority of the human race. The only way for you to make a difference is to take a stand. If you are disturbed by an event, write to your local newspaper discussing your disgust; You aren’t happy with your meal, call the chef and let him know you weren’t satisfied. Whatever it is, speak up. It is simply unacceptable to complain if you are one of those people who lets any injustice pass you by or chooses to turn a blind eye to an unacceptable event. Don’t fall for anything, stand up and make a difference. Our featured interviewee’s know that just too well.

It may be hot outside, but it’s raining models, actors and even singers, in this month’s edition of Roshni Magazine.

Thank you all so much for expressing your love and gratitude for RM. In fact, the response has been so magnificent, that we will be adding more interviews mid-month from this edition onwards. Keep checking back for updates!

Your feedback is always appreciated so keep them coming. In the meantime, enjoy and remember: Ask and you will be told.

Happy Summer!

Love and light,
Roshni M.

Vikas Mahendroo

“There’s no logic when it comes pursuing your dreams.” – Vikas Mahendroo

The first time I interviewed Vikas Mahendroo, the model had just returned from the Mr. Globe competition. Back then, he had some solid advice for budding models, “…believe in yourself, and always be positive.” Acting upon his own guidance, Mahendroo has done just that. One of his most charismatic traits is his nonstop upbeat attitude and everlasting smile. His voyage into the modeling world may have been by pure chance, but luck was definitely on his side. He quickly trotted the ramp vying for the crown of Mr. Globe, Mr. International and Mr. Universe. Winning great praises and acclaim, he returned minus the laurels but richer in confidence and many other exclusive titles to his name. However, ask me and if Vikas was a Mr. Men character, he would definitely be Mr. Cheerful. Stick around as the hunky model gives Roshni Magazine the lowdown on beating life’s intricacies and staying happy.

Mr. Globe, Mr. International and more recently, Mr. Universe. How has the journey been?
The journey has been full of life, adventure and experiences. It’s been great, I’ve learned a lot, seen quite a few places, met people from distant places and cultures, and made some wonderful friends. What started as a hobby now is a passion.

What is your favorite memory from the Mr. Universe competition?
(Thinks) My favorite memory… The whole experience in itself was amazing, great people, very tough competition but all fun. I have to say my favorite moment was when I was awarded Best National Costume and Mr. Congeniality. It felt great to have represented my country and actually win something which is not about my physical features but about my country, where I come from and something I truly believe in. There were some amazing costumes in the show, but for me to get best costume made me feel really proud as an Indian.

What questions were you asked by the judges?
There were actually three interesting questions. The first was, if I could go in a time machine and go back in time, to see my grandfather as a child, what advice would i give him and why? I answered; if I was to be able to do that then I would tell my grand father to be a little broad and open-minded. We come from a very structured society, and we are supposed to be doctors, lawyers, engineers. My father was an exceptional painter and did wanted to pursue his dream of being a painter but my grandfather insisted on him being an engineer, and my father did so.  He had a great life but I believe he could’ve done bigger and better things in life if only he was allowed to pursue his dreams. So I will tell my grand father to let his kids be what they want to be, help them to get there, putting the burden of our dreams on our children is not necessarily a smart idea.

The second question was if there was one thing about the Indian culture that I could preserve what it would be and why? My answer was, the thing would be the strength and belief in our relationships. Once we [as Indians] commit to a person or a relationship, [we] will do everything and anything to save it before we say quit. A lot of people from other parts of the world give up too easily and too soon, that’s why the divorce ratio is so high and kids are without their parents. But we as Indians try to work it out, live with it if we have to, hoping it would get better with time and only give up when there’s nothing left to try. I’m proud of this culture and will keep it forever.

And the last question asked by one of the judges was “I’ve seen u for last week, and every time I see you, you are happy and smiling. What’s the secret of your always Indian attitude? I laughed, and answered, well, I believe life is a blessing, I’m very fortunate to do wt i want to do, very fortunate to be healthy and alive, lucky to be here amongst you beautiful people representing my country, very very fortunate to have a loving family. So i don’t have enough reasons to be negative, and have more than enough reasons to be happy. There is so much sadness around that a little positiveness could help people a lot. I can’t help everyone with what they need, but maybe my smiling face or positive attitude could bring a smile on their face and make their day a better one.

How cutthroat is such a competition?
The competition was great and it was held in a very professional manner. The contestants were ready, mentally and physically. It was tough but fun. Everyone was there representing their respective countries, so the stakes were high. It was done in the right spirit.

How was the last pageant different from the first?
I felt much more confident and well prepared. I also felt that I do belong here and it was no coincidence that i did the first one. And of course, this business is about contacts, marketing yourself and exposure, so the more you do, the better it is.

What changes have you seen in yourself over the past few years?
I would say, I’ve grown as a person, started to understand complexities of life better…and learnt to take no for an answer as a positive. I’ve also looked beyond the obvious. There’s a whole new side to life; it’s all about fashion, glamour, and such things, but it still remains about keeping our integrity and values because character is what matters at the end.

Is Bollywood a possible option soon?
Sure! Bollywood is always an option. It all depends on when and where that door will open. I am certainly doing all I can on my end, the rest is up to the Almighty.

What do you like to do in your spare time?
(Laughs) I play tennis, watch movies and cricket, talk to my family and friends.

Keeping the current economic recession in mind, would you advise any potential model to quit their day job and pursue their dream?
There’s no logic when it comes pursuing your dreams. If you feel it in your gut, you have to go for it. I’m not saying to be irresponsible and just quit your job but average efforts only bring average results. The problem is we want to be like John Abraham but can’t go to gym six days week or say no to pizza. So we dream big but effort is very small. Only you know how bad you want it, and if you want it that bad, then you will figure out a way to get there.

What is your inspiration to strive forward?
My inspiration is my family. I would love to do something which will make family feel proud of me. If I’ll be able to do something in life which will have a positive impact on my loved ones lives and i would be able to contribute anything good to their existing lives, I will feel accomplished.

How do you stay positive?
Being positive is once again a state of mind and how u look at things. I feel fortunate to be alive, healthy, have a loving family, great friends and fortunate to have the freedom to pursue my dreams. There are more than enough reasons to be happy, never enough negatives to be sad. You know things could always be worst and in reality they are not as bad as we think they are.

What stereotype that is associated with models, do you believe or know is completely wrong?
That models have no brains, or they are all about looks, and personality doesn’t matter. That’s not true. For you to be successful at anything, it takes overall personality. Looks can only get you in, but if you want to be there for long, only personality can make it happen.

Why did you choose to pursue modeling in America as opposed to modeling in India where you could have possibly been more successful?
Well it wasn’t planned that way. I just happen to do a pageant with Jinder (Chauhan) two years ago here in L.A., that’s how it all started. So it wasn’t really an option to work in India as a model. I’m open and if i get work to do, I would love to go back home and do something good.

What is next on the agenda?
Next is to keep knocking on that door, working hard, working out, keeping fit, look for right representation and do some good meaningful work. I will do what I can and rest is up to god. We will see what I am destined for.

And by now, you’ve definitely gained some fans, what is your message to them?
My message is be positive, always smile. There’s enough negativity and sadness in this world already so if you can help with a little positivity and optimism, it will help a lot. Never give up you dreams, that’s what we live for…without a goal there’s no destination.

~Roshni M.
(July 2009)

Aashna

It has been a very long journey and every minute has been wonderful.” – Aashna

Aashna is one helluva talented and organized gal. Talented, because to her resumes credit, she is a model, a singer, a television host, a traveler and an actress; and organized, because she has managed to successfully achieve great heights in all these fields nearly simultaneously. And if you think she looks familiar, then its more than likely you’ve spotted her on CNN or on the Travel Channel. However, at the end of the day, Aashna is just your ordinary American-Indian girl who is living the ultimate American Dream. She’s spontaneous and lives life in the moment—just as she should. All it took was a quick message to the globetrotter, who was on the beaches of Hawaii when she agreed to an interview with Roshni Magazine. Read on to be inspired by her zest for life and take heed to her credible advice for aspiring television folk.

You were born in Mumbai and to your credit a television host, a travel host, a singer, “model and an actress in the U.S. How did it all happen?
As far as I can remember, it all began after moving to Toronto.  I was almost four years young and would direct plays and performances with my little friends. My parents patiently watched every show and encouraged me to use my imagination. My father genuinely loved everything I created, but my mom told me much later in life that every performance was terrible. (Laughs) I’m so happy she never told me as a kid. I would have been devastated.

I sang and danced pretty much all my life but the first time I appeared on television was in high school on City TV in Toronto. I co-hosted “Sounds of Asia” and hosted my own segment called “Hidden Talent” for free. I just wanted to get the experience. My first paying job was singing and dancing at Canada’s Wonderland.  Can you imagine being a young teen getting paid to sing, dance and act in musicals all summer long? I was on top of the world.

After graduating from University, I worked at YTV, Canada where I hosted a number of shows: The Breakfast Zone, Shift and The Hit List, Canada’s top music video countdown show.  Following were hosting, reporting and producing jobs with TV Guide Canada, CNN’s World Beat, TV Guide USA, Extra and The Travel Channel.

Having the opportunity to host “Travel Ala Mode” and “Vacation Home Search” has allowed me to visit some of the most beautiful destinations on our planet. What I love most is being exposed to the local culture and people.

Music has always been a passion of mine. I recorded a self-titled album with MCA Records in Canada and have sung the American and Canadian National Anthems for the MLB and NBA for the past fifteen years. It is truly a high to be in a packed stadium with 50,000 people singing and cheering along. The first time I heard my single on the radio, I was in shock and called my mom to tell her that someone on the radio sounded exactly like me.

Modeling and acting just fell into my lap. I haven’t had much time to pursue either; I focused more on television and music. Nonetheless, I continue to take on projects mostly in animation. Yes, I can do many accents and weird voices.

So as you can see, it has been a very long journey and every minute has been wonderful.

Courtesy of hosting shows on the Travel Channel, you’ve globe trotted all over the world. Is it really as great and glamorous as it looks? How did you land up on the Travel Channel?
It’s always great, sometimes glamorous and very exhausting but when you love what you do, working in stunning locations up to 20 hours a day is paradise.  I’ve always wanted to work on the Travel Channel. I was called in to audition for Animal Planet and instead of getting that job, I landed a job on the Travel Channel. I have auditioned hundreds of times and I never had to audition for “Vacation Home Search.”

After all that travel, is there one place in the world you haven’t yet visited and want to? Which is your favorite holiday spot?
I really want to visit Santorini, Greece. These days, my favorite holiday spot is Santa Monica. I travel so much that being home is the only time I feel like I’m on a holiday. All kidding aside, I love St. Martin. It’s safe, multi-cultural and has beautiful beaches, tons of outdoor activities and a fantastic nightlife. The Caribbean water is truly the best. It has many shades of blue and green and most importantly, it’s warm.

CNN is one of my favorite channels. What was the experience like working at the well renowned news channel?
I loved working on “World Beat.” I had the opportunity to interview some of most popular singers and musicians from all over the world. I also hosted the show from St. Lucia’s Jazz Festival and from the Junos (Canadian Music Awards). As you already know, entertainment segments have become shorter and have less substance. What I loved about CNN is that my segments were around five minutes. It really gave me the opportunity to allow viewers to experience a more in-depth look at the artists.

You’ve also worked at NBC’s “Extra” and TV Guide’s “Hollywood Insider” interviewing celebrities including Tom Hanks. What was the experience like?
The first Tom Hanks movie I saw was “Big” and I’ve been a fan ever since. I interviewed Tom Hanks on the red carpet where Hollywood was honoring him with a lifetime achievement award. That didn’t make much sense to me; he’s still going to make many more films. He was just as I expected – charming and hilarious.

Who are some of the more famous personalities you’ve interviewed and what are some interesting things you’ve learned?
I’ve had the opportunity to interview celebrities including Dustin Hoffman, Madonna, Mariah Carey, Celine Dion, Justin Timberlake, Jennifer Anniston, Britney Spears, Steve Martin, Michelle Pfeiffer, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jamie-Lee Curtis, the late Bernie Mac, and many others.

I have only had positive experiences with Hollywood’s top celebrities. They have all been gracious and appreciative. I love interviewing and I’ve learned to be attentive, intuitive, fearless, and spontaneous.

My best interviews have been in settings where the celebrity is most comfortable. I interviewed Bernie Mac on the set of his show and spent the entire day hanging out with the cast and crew. He was a good soul and because his positive attitude was contagious, everyone on set was just as happy as him. I interviewed Justin Timberlake while go-carting. We had a lot of fun but by the end of the interview, we both felt sick…haha.

What advice do you have for young Indians who want to get involved in television?
This industry is filled with very talented and creative people so embrace the energy. Be prepared to deal with long hours and criticism – both positive and negative. Like anything, be the best at your craft and learn as much about production as you learn about being on-camera. Write down your ideas and turn them into stories, segments, shows and films. And most importantly, be as humble as possible. No one likes to work with someone with an inflated ego so stay down to earth.

Do you feel it’s hard to constantly fight the stereotypes associated with Indians?
Not at all. Most people don’t know where I’m from and I hardly get cast for Indian roles.  I like to focus on the positive and spend my time professionally and personally with forward-thinking people.

Do you believe Slumdog Millionaire has really made a difference in how Indians are perceived or is it simply a phase?
I think it has made a huge difference in the industry and to the millions of people who saw the film. I saw it opening day and left the theater dancing.

How do you stay connected to your roots and Indian culture?
It comes naturally. I love the literature, the food, the music, the films, the musicians, the artists, the different dance styles, and most of all the people. I also embrace all cultures and don’t care to be defined only as Indian. I have lived in India, Canada and now the US.  I’ve traveled to many places and the cultures I experience also become a part of who I am.

Is Bollywood something you would be interested in perhaps later in the future? Who are your favorites?
I’m open and interested but at this time, I’m not pursuing work in Bollywood. Amitabh Bachchan, Rekha, Rani Mukherjee, Abhishek Bachchan, Kajol and Ajay Devgan are my favorites.

What is one achievement you are most proud of?
My desire to nurture my relationship with God, my family and friends.

What is coming up for you?
I don’t have a clue and I’m excited about the possibilities.

Any message for your fans and readers?
Thanks for your support all these years. Check out modeling photos of my best friend and brother, Chirag Amin at www.aazin.com. Roshni, thanks for contacting me and I wish you much happiness and success.

Spread the joy!!!

~ Roshni M.
(July 2009)

Sunkrish Bala

“I feel like I’m cheating at life” – Sunkrish Bala

Sunkrish Bala realized at a very tender age that he was going to indulge in the glitz and glam that the acting world provided. Straight out of college, UCLA, he landed an integral part on ABC’s Notes from the Underbelly, and guest starred on a number of Emmy Winning shows. Staying close to his roots, the Bombay born Indian-American actor has also starred alongside veteran actor Anupam Kher American Blend. Google him and the actor is gushed and lushed over by the ladies for his good looks, charm and incredible quick wit. And of course, in true Bala-fashion, the actor was more than willing to talk acting, fans and even Bollywood with Roshni Magazine. Check it out!

How did acting happen? Was it a childhood dream?
Well I had always sort of done community theater and all that as a kid, but it definitely wasn’t a viable career option. Growing up how and where I did, it just wasn’t realistic. It wasn’t until I started applying to colleges and figuring out what I wanted to do with my life that I even began to think about acting as a possible career. And even as a theater major in college, I was more into the academia of it. It just never really hit me that people were actually going to pay me to do what I loved.

How did “Notes from the Underbelly” happen? Did you expect it to be so successful and for your character to receive such accolades?
I booked the pilot for Notes during my senior year at UCLA. We happened to shoot it during spring break. The day before I graduated, we found out the show had been picked up by ABC—where it ran for two years. That was probably the luckiest sequence of events—in terms of timing—that has ever happened to me. Couldn’t have asked for more.

You’ve appeared on a number of popular shows: CSI: NY, Will and Grace, My Name is Earl, Grey’s Anatomy just to name a few. What has the experience been like?
Horrible, awful experiences. No, it’s been phenomenal! Really, really fun and educational and everything I expected it to be.

In more recent times, especially post Slumdog Millionaire, Indian’s seem to be receiving more recognition. Do you feel you aren’t being type casted anymore?
I get asked this question a lot. Actually, I’ve found that the industry has been steadily moving away from “typecasting,” so to speak, for years now. Hollywood is certainly a much more inclusive place than the town I first walked into four years ago. I think, actually, that that’s part of the reason that something like Slumdog was so successful. It couldn’t have happened—as big as it happened— a few years ago.

Did you get a chance to watch Slumdog? What did you think of it?
I adored it, of course. It deserved every one of those accolades.

Is Bollywood something you would be interested in?
I haven’t really thought about it, to be honest. I’ve been keeping very busy on this side of the world. Also, I’m a terrible dancer.

What was the experience of working in “American Blend?”
I think I had finished my sophomore year of college when we filmed that. I was nineteen or twenty and definitely had never been on a professional set before. I was sort of thrust into it headfirst. I had a blast, obviously, but I was very undisciplined. I was having too much fun. It was playtime.

And Anupam Kher?
Couldn’t ask for a sweeter, funnier more patient man than Anupamji. Having a living legend playing my father was definitely surreal. But he was so approachable and charming and funny. I just saw him again the last time I went back to India. He’s fantastic.

Television or film: which do you prefer and why?
I’ve definitely done a lot more television than film, but they’re both very rewarding. And, honestly, the work and preparation to do either is very similar. Though there’s a lot more time to get it right when you’re making a movie, and TV is very quick—go-go-go!

Are you still active with A’Shore – the Indian-American theater company you co-founded? What are they currently up to?
I think A’shore is, sadly, defunct. Or at least on hiatus. I miss those guys. Though I believe a lot of its members are still active in Naatak, which is an incredible South Asian theater company in the Bay Area.

What do you feel is your greatest accomplishment thus far?
I’m honestly just happy and proud to be included in the industry and profession that I’m in.

What do you do afterhours?
My schedule is pretty erratic. “After” hours really has no meaning. I’m writing a couple of projects on the side, and I’m in the process of adopting a puppy.

What is your inspiration?
I absolutely love doing what I do. I honestly feel like I’m getting away with something.  I feel like I’m cheating at life.

Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?
I hope I’m as excited doing this as I am now. Honestly, I couldn’t ask for more. I just want to keep it up.

How has life changed for you after becoming an actor? Do fans recognize you on the street?
Very, very rarely. And it’s usually of the “I know you from something” variety. Does that count? I don’t think that counts. So, life hasn’t changed much.

What is next on the agenda for you?
I have a couple movies coming out over the next year. One is a teen slasher flick called “Albino Farm.” The other is a drama I’m very proud of called “Another Harvest Moon” opposite legendary actors like Ernest Borgnine, Anne Meara, and Doris Roberts. I’ll also be on a new series on NBC next season called “Day One.”

Any message for your fans?
Thanks for all the kind words and support! It means a lot!