The vibrant tapestry of Bollywood shines brighter with the prowess of its skilled actors, and among the notable lights is Sunny Hinduja. Be it delving into the character of an investigative journalist in “The Railway Men” (2023) or embodying an IAS aspirant in the widely appreciated show “Aspirants” (2021), Hinduja demonstrates a versatility few can match. Yet, his evolving range isn’t simply a product of instinct; it’s a skill meticulously cultivated through rigorous training at the Film & Television Institute of India (FTII), one of the nation’s premier acting institutions.
In the bustling corridors of FTII, many now-renowned actors honed their craft, including Sunny Hinduja, who is both a product and a testament to the institute’s legacy, having graduated in the year 2008. It’s a batch that has been exceptionally fruitful, gifting the Indian film industry with luminaries such as the critically acclaimed Rajkummar Rao, the versatile Jaideep Ahlawat, and the intense Vijay Varma. Their collective journey from earnest film students to recognized stars is a story of hard work, dedication, and an undying passion for the performing arts.
Reflecting on the journey and achievements of his fellow 2008 batchmates, Hinduja exudes pride. “Witnessing Rajkummar, Jaideep, Vijay, and many others from our batch flourish in their respective careers is immensely gratifying,” Hinduja shares, adding that their presence enhances the richness of Indian cinema through a diverse array of mainstream and independent projects. “Their remarkable contribution and compelling acts are a source of inspiration for many aspiring actors. It is evidence of the formidable grooming provided by institutions like FTII,” he states.
FTII’s contribution to the Indian cinema industry is monumental, having been the crucible where legends such as Shabana Azmi, Naseeruddin Shah, Jaya Bachchan, and Om Puri shaped their initial years. For Hinduja, FTII holds a particularly sentimental value: “It’s where I grew, both personally and professionally. The guidance and mentorship I received there form the foundation of my work ethic and approach to acting.” Indeed, for Hinduja and many of his colleagues, FTII wasn’t just an educational institution but a nurturing ground for talent and creativity.
This deep respect for FTII is a recurring theme when talking about his education and career. Hinduja believes that training is crucial, describing it as the bedrock on which an actor builds his or her career. “The discipline, the practice, the exposure to different schools of thought and techniques—these are what enable an actor to dive into any character with confidence and authenticity.”
Currently, as Hinduja prepares to grace cinema screens in the action thriller “Yodha”, the anticipation among audiences is palpable. His role is pivotal, and fans eagerly await this latest demonstration of his talent. “Yodha” is but one more step in an ever-expanding career that has seen him tackle complex and endearing roles alike, earning praise for his nuanced performances.
Sunny Hinduja represents a growing breed of Indian actors who are not just faces on a screen but embodiments of the artistic spirit fostered by places like FTII. His journey, alongside that of his distinguished batchmates, serves as a story of perseverance and ambition—a reminder of the vibrant future ahead for Indian cinema, enriched by the dedication of its actors. With each successful role, Hinduja not only pays homage to the institution that helped hone his abilities but also to the art of acting itself, demonstrating the power of passion coupled with education in the relentless world of film.
