Pratik Deshmukh’s story isn’t just about transitions; it’s a harmonious blend of passion and talent. In a candid conversation, the actor unfolds his journey and throws light on the delicate balancing act between a family business and his relentless love for the world of entertainment and films.
Excerpts
Transitioning from a thriving career in the US to a new journey in the films, followed by returning to higher education, is undoubtedly a bold move. Could you share some memorable anecdotes or challenges?
When I made the move to the US, it was my sister and my brother-in-law who provided wholehearted support. It felt like I was utilizing a completely different part of my brain, and during moments of self-doubt, they stood by me, unwavering. Investing five years into the film industry, starting from scratch, raised questions about the right path forward. Returning to the US was a unique challenge. While adapting to the US culture wasn’t the issue, transitioning from the creative realm of entertainment back to the tech world felt like rewiring my brain. Panic attacks became a mental struggle. Still, with a strong support system, including my family and friends from the film industry, I persevered. Some of my undergrad friends with diverse industry experiences provided valuable perspectives, connecting me with someone at Netflix who recognized the potential of blending entertainment with my newfound expertise in data analytics and business. This revelation excited me. Securing an internship in a Hollywood agency, specializing in data analytics for social media, opened doors to work with celebrities, bands, talents, and creative agencies. It was an amazing journey, illustrating how opportunities abound in the US for those who know what they want.
Your parents’ unwavering support has played a pivotal role in your journey. What is the significance of family support, especially in a new country?
I couldn’t agree more. My parents’ unwavering support has been absolutely instrumental in my journey. Picture this: I went to the US, invested heavily in my undergraduate education, secured a job at the age of 20 or 21, and was well on my way to financial success. I could have chosen to stay, save, get promoted, and follow the conventional path to financial prosperity. However, I decided to leave all of that behind, return to India, move to Mumbai, and pursue my dreams with no external support or backing. This decision wasn’t easy, but my parents had confidence in me. Being an outsider in the film industry can be particularly challenging because you don’t always understand the norms and realities. They’ve provided the emotional strength I needed to keep going, learn the industry’s ins and outs, and adapt to its unique demands. Without their support, I don’t think I would have made it this far.
Being an outsider in the film industry can be particularly challenging because you don’t always understand the norms and realities.
How did the pandemic impact your decision to explore writing as a creative outlet during your master’s degree?
Just before the pandemic, I had signed up for a couple of film projects, working on two films partially and one entirely. Regrettably, none of these projects came to fruition, which left me feeling disheartened and questioning my career trajectory. Initially, I believed that as circumstances improved, so would my prospects. However, I soon realized that many individuals in the film industry, especially those with substantial investments, were merely waiting for their projects to resume. This situation led to a slowdown in the creation of new content. Observing these challenges firsthand, I recognized that it might take several years for the industry to normalize fully and for new opportunities to arise. This prompted me to consider alternative paths. Given my family’s background in business, I had always harbored a desire to explore the intersection of Hollywood and the film industry with broader business perspectives. The opportunity presented itself, and I seized it. The pandemic pushed me to broaden my horizons and explore avenues beyond acting and production. Looking back now, I’m grateful for this period of transformation.
How did your personal experiences, both in India and the US, influence the themes and narratives of your debut novel, Four Days of Magic?
Writing this book was initially a daunting challenge for me. I had this seed of an idea even before the pandemic, sparked by a producer who asked me to develop something for film or TV. My experiences both in India and the US played a pivotal role in shaping the narrative. As an actor, I could relate to different aspects of my life through the characters’ journeys. Acting helped me understand the characters’ emotions and internal dialogues. Being a creative producer aided in structuring the story, and my engineering background kept me on schedule. A semester I spent studying in Rome influenced the setting in the book, reflecting my fond memories of the place. In essence, my various experiences contributed to the diverse characters and their journeys, making the writing process both challenging and enjoyable.
My experiences both in India and the US played a pivotal role in shaping the narrative.
Tell us more about how your YouTube channel has helped you connect with and support fellow immigrants abroad?
To be honest, when I began my YouTube journey, I was searching for a creative outlet. My unavailability for auditions left me feeling unfulfilled and disconnected from the camera, which I sorely missed. At this point, a few unrelated friends suggested I explore YouTube, prompting me to give it a shot. I began by shooting and editing videos but faced a crucial question: How could I add genuine value to someone’s life beyond the typical daily routine updates? My realization came from my experiences as a graduate student in the US. Many of my fellow students were new to the country, and I often found myself helping them navigate the intricacies of American life, particularly the education system. Recognizing the need for guidance, I dedicated numerous YouTube videos to addressing the questions and concerns of Indian students aspiring to study in the US. My videos aimed to provide a reality check, dispelling idealized notions of life abroad and highlighting the hard work involved. Many students arrive with romanticized expectations only to find themselves struggling with everyday responsibilities. Through my videos, I hoped to offer guidance, encourage informed decision-making, and provide a dose of reality.
What message would you like to share with those who are navigating their own immigrant stories?
My message is: Don’t hesitate to connect with your own community. I’ve observed some Indians distancing themselves from fellow Indians, which doesn’t make sense to me. We’re all united, regardless of our backgrounds. In my master’s program, most of my peers were Indian, but that didn’t limit my friendships. However, there’s a unique sense of belonging and community you can find within your own people. Empathy is key. Put yourself out there, empathize with others, and try to understand their perspectives.
What are you currently working on?
Currently, I’m juggling various roles. Firstly, I’m actively engaged in our family’s industrial automation business, working alongside my dad and managing a team of 30-35 people. In addition, I’m wearing the hat of a creative producer, developing exciting concepts for potential film and web series projects. I’m also deep into writing my second book, which explores the challenging theme of bullying through the lens of a 17-year-old character. Unlike my first book, it’s not a romance; it’s more about coming of age and anti-bullying themes. While reestablishing myself in the Indian acting scene is a challenge, I’m taking it in stride and focusing on selective, meaningful roles.
