Bollywood is the informal name for the Indian film industry. Based in Mumbai, India, the name Bollywood resulted from putting Bombay, the old name of Mumbai, together with Hollywood. Bollywood began to surpass the United States in film production in the 1970s and now produces hundreds of films a year. It is not easy to enter the Indian film industry without contacts as it is a competition of thousands of women who want to work in Bollywood and the competition is strong. However, there are a few things you can do to improve your odds and learn how to become a Bollywood actress.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Developing Your Talents
Step 1. Learn Hindi
Most films are not subtitled, so a command of this language is necessary. Knowing how to communicate with casting agents and directors in film studios is also important. Most of the communication from behind the scenes to the stage is in Hindi, which makes it the number one requirement.
Although English is used in many Bollywood movies, mastering this language is an optional skill. However, if you are also confident in English, this is a point in your favor and could mean being chosen for one party rather than someone else
Step 2. Get the right look
Study current actresses in the Bollywood film industry to see what the demand is. According to stereotypes, successful actresses have long, slightly wavy hair, olive skin, and well-groomed eyebrows, nails, lips, and everything in between.
Just like in Hollywood, there is definitely an emphasis on being beautiful. Most actresses are stereotypically beautiful, with long hair, fair complexions, a slim figure, and delicate features
Step 3. Learn to dance
To work on Bollywood films, you will not only need rhythm and fluid dance movements, but you must also know the meaning of all movements and positions. Hand and body gestures and movements, if not done correctly, can offend viewers. It is not something you are born with, but you must learn it.
Lessons at a dance school, through videos, or with a private instructor are some options. While not all roles involve dancing, almost every movie does dance
Step 4. Take singing lessons
The Bollywood film industry is famous for its singing and dancing segments, and there are usually 6 or more musical numbers in the film. If you truly want stardom, your voice must be a gem. The sooner you start the better.
More and more teachers are offering lessons over the phone or via Skype. If you don't know teachers in your area, consider taking online lessons as an option
Step 5. Get professional training in movement and acting
In addition to singing and dancing, you must be able to act and move with subtle grace. Study with a mentor, join an acting group, or consider going to film school if your pocketbook allows it. Sure, you will need "that" touch, but you also need technical knowledge.
This also takes practice. As you study, take every opportunity to hone your acting skills. The more time you spend in front of the camera, the better. However, being in front of a live audience is good too
Part 2 of 3: Start moving up
Step 1. Watch (and love) Indian movies
To understand the type of roles, current style of acting and dialogue delivery of well-known actors and actresses, it is very important to watch Indian films. Immerse yourself in them. Develop a refined appreciation to the point where you can't see yourself in anything else. Make them part of your life.
- There are sites to watch Indian movies online like FridayMasti.com that can help you broaden your Bollywood horizons.
- This will also help you understand the culture. Read about the area and follow the news and trends to supplement your knowledge.
Step 2. Build a portfolio
For casting agents to take you seriously, you need to have a portfolio. Get professional photos taken and make an audition tape or DVD showcasing your acting, singing, and dancing skills. It should also show snippets of the work you've already done.
Promote yourself on sites like YouTube, where you can develop your own following independently. If you have your own professional website, even better
Step 3. Find minor papers to get started
This can be an extra or extra role in a movie or a stuntman. Accepts parts in commercials, television shows, reality shows, and games. Also try to get a job as a model. You can't start from the top, you have to work your way up. It's all about taking steps in the right direction.
Film studios are around Mumbai in the Juhu district. Movie recruiters looking for extras and tourists are usually most active in the early morning
Step 4. Be honest with yourself about your qualities as a star
It takes almost as much charisma, talent and skill to be "discovered" in Bollywood as it does in Hollywood. Competition is strong and connections are important. Also, it is difficult to work in Bollywood if you are not of Indian descent. Determine if you actually have a chance of succeeding before spending time and energy learning how to become a Bollywood actress.
As you move up, you are going to need a source of income. Many of those who aim for stardom have something else to do until they get their big break. It is best to withdraw in case it does not work
Part 3 of 3: Becoming a Star
Step 1. Use any contacts you have in the Bollywood film industry
Many of the biggest stars got their break because they were born into the business. Like in Hollywood, in Bollywood it's all about networking, contacts, and more contacts. That invitation they made you to a party? Attend. You never know who you can find who can help you.
This is why taking any paper you can, even when it comes to picking up the mail, is a step in the right direction. You will be surrounded by the right people and you will make them notice your name and your presence. Even the smallest performance can lead to great opportunities
Step 2. Go to as many auditions as you can
Most of Bollywood is centered in Mumbai. Your chances of achieving your goal are also drastically increased if you can focus your life in Mumbai and attend as many auditions as possible. You will feel more confident with each one you attend.
Remember that there is no audition that is very small. Each role is something you can add to your resume or to your reel. The bigger it is, the more likely the casting agent will look at you and think "he must know what he's doing."
Step 3. Start getting bigger and bigger papers
Very few actresses start out as stars. These actresses spend time and effort to prove that they are "something special." As you develop your career, you will start landing bigger and bigger roles. More and more people will recognize you, leading to bigger and better opportunities.
Be patient. Climbing the ladder takes time and some don't see results for years. Stay there, believe in yourself and do your best. You will inevitably experience rejection, but that can't stop you. Let your confidence carry you through trouble
Step 4. Focus on what makes you unique
Some actresses fight their whole lives to get inside the box that the media or their agents indicate to them. They try to fit in a "look" that is not for them. Instead of doing this, accept what makes you different. Take what makes you unique and wear it, because no one else can. No one else can do what you can do, but everyone can try to be the same person.
If there's something you don't fit into, make it work for you. Is your voice a little different from "normal"? No, it is different, you just need the correct paper. And in that correct role, you will be unforgettable
Step 5. Face the media (and toughen up)
With more and more positive attention, inevitably comes more and more negative attention. You will be in the public eye, so it is sensible to behave yourself in the best way possible. You will have opponents and people who wish you to fail, but ignore them. You will also have fans on your side. Focus on the positive, don't drown yourself on the negative. It definitely won't do you any good.
With stardom also comes responsibility. You will be a role model for the people of the world, but especially for children. Always leave your house on the best foot and behave responsibly
Step 6. Enjoy stardom
All that hard work finally pays off. You make movies, wait in VIP rooms, and hang out with other stars. The great life. Treasure it, because not everyone is so lucky. Return the favor to the people who helped you get promoted. They are also the ones that keep you on top!