ENGLISH SPEECH | VICKY KAUSHAL: From Engineering to Acting (English Subtitles)

Summary

The speaker emphasizes the importance of belief in achieving success, explaining that while the 'how' may be uncertain, strong belief guides the way. He shares his journey from an engineering student to a successful actor, reflecting on how moments of introspection led him to pursue acting. He discusses the impact of failure, perseverance, and learning, stressing that setbacks are integral to growth. The speaker also highlights the importance of being honest in acting, bonding with co-actors, and embracing the process, both in life and on set, to achieve genuine success.

Takeaways

• 😀 Belief is key: You may not always know how things will happen, but believing in the outcome is crucial to achieving it.
• 🎉 Personal journey: The speaker shared their journey from a science student to an actor, beginning at a local bus stop and engineering college.
• 🎓 Education and passion: Although he studied engineering, his real passion for performing started during a college industrial visit.
• 💼 Patience in learning: He spent five years learning acting, assisting, and working behind the scenes before confidently stepping in front of the camera.
• 🎬 Career breakthrough: His acting journey officially began in 2009, and by 2015, he starred in a major film release, perfectly aligning with his five-year goal.
• 💪 Handling failure: Failure is a crucial part of success, and it should rattle and shake you in order to build perseverance and persistence.
• 🎭 Acting philosophy: The speaker doesn't believe in one specific acting method but focuses on being honest between 'action' and 'cut.'
• 👥 Co-actor bonding: A key part of acting for him is bonding with co-actors, as it enhances the authenticity of relationships portrayed on screen.
• 📅 Methodical approach: He values workshopping and preparation, spending time faffing and creating the desired energy with co-actors before filming.
• 🚶 Persistence: The most important thing in life is to keep walking and keep working towards your goals.

Q & A

What does the speaker believe is essential for success?

The speaker believes that it is not always necessary to know how something will happen, but it is crucial to believe that it will happen. Belief is the first step before any skill or talent.

How did the speaker's journey as an actor begin?

The speaker’s journey as an actor began after engineering. During an industrial visit in his second year of college, he introspected and realized he wanted to pursue acting instead of engineering. He started his journey as an actor in 2009 after completing his degree.

Why did the speaker decide to take time before stepping in front of the camera?

The speaker was in no rush to act in front of the camera because he believed that the camera captures honesty. He wanted to learn the craft of acting thoroughly before facing the audience, knowing that first impressions on camera are critical.

How did the speaker's belief in success manifest in his career?

The speaker shared a personal experience where, during an acting course in 2009, he was asked where he saw himself in five years. Though he wasn’t a fan of predicting the future, he answered that he would be doing theater and assisting someone. Five years later, on July 24, 2015, his debut film *Masaan* was released, proving the power of belief.

How does the speaker view failure?

The speaker views failure as an important and essential part of success. He believes that failures should rattle and shake you because they often mark the beginning stages of success, alongside persistence and perseverance.

What role did the speaker's family play in his education and career choices?

The speaker’s family insisted that he complete his graduation before pursuing other interests. Although he had a passion for performing, the rule in his family was to finish studies, which led him to complete his engineering degree.

What approach does the speaker take toward acting?

The speaker does not believe in one specific method of acting. Instead, he believes in reaching a point of honesty between action and cut, regardless of the method used. He adapts his approach depending on the role and film.

How does the speaker prepare for roles with his co-actors?

The speaker believes in bonding with his co-actors, as their relationship in real life influences their on-screen chemistry. He cites examples like living together with Taapsee Pannu on set for *Emergency* and spending time faffing with Ranbir Kapoor for *Sanju* to build natural energy between their characters.

What is the significance of the speaker’s experience at the bus stop during his junior college years?

The speaker shared a nostalgic memory of waiting for buses during his time as a science student at Mithibai College. This experience symbolizes his humble beginnings before pursuing a career in acting, illustrating how far he has come since those days.

What advice does the speaker give to young people regarding failure?

The speaker advises young people not to fear failure, as it is an essential part of any journey. He emphasizes that failure will happen, and it's important to allow it to rattle and challenge you, as it ultimately contributes to success.