MUMBAI: Suraj Sharma, one of India’s most internationally celebrated young actors, has steadily built a strong global footprint ever since his extraordinary debut in Ang Lee’s Oscar-winning masterpiece Life of Pi.
His moving portrayal of Pi Patel earned worldwide acclaim, instantly marking him as a performer capable of delivering depth, maturity and emotional authenticity well beyond his years.
Over the past decade, Suraj has continued to expand his creative horizons, taking on diverse roles in Indian cinema, Hollywood and digital platforms.
From Phillauri and The Illegal to How I Met Your Father and Wedding Season, he has showcased an impressive range that effortlessly crosses cultures and genres.
In an exclusive conversation with TellyChakkar, the actor spoke candidly about mental health within the Hollywood ecosystem and whether he feels pressure to break away from the huge shadow of his iconic Life of Pi character.
(ALSO READ: In conversation with Suraj Sharma - Ang Lee's new hero in The Life of Pi)
How do you think mental health should be approached in an industry like Hollywood?
“When we make a film, it involves a massive team and a lot of responsibility often ends up forming around one individual,” Suraj explains. “I feel the best way to deal with mental health is for everyone to come together, communicate openly and share the load. Collaboration and honest conversations are essential. When the entire crew is on the same page, it becomes easier for everyone involved.”
Do you feel the need to break away from the image of Pi Patel, just as Leonardo DiCaprio had to reposition himself after Titanic?
“An actor’s real work begins when he is not acting,” Suraj says thoughtfully. “Whether I’m expressing anger, exploring creativity or spending time with the people who truly matter, transformation happens off screen. When you’re with your loved ones and you’re yourself—without performing—that’s when real growth takes place. The key is to stay creative even when you’re not ‘acting’.”
With his grounded personality, thoughtful approach to his craft and commitment to meaningful stories, Suraj Sharma continues to emerge as one of India’s most promising global talents.
As he embraces new challenges and international collaborations, he remains a shining example of a new-age actor who is versatile, relatable and steadily rising on the world stage.
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(ALSO READ: Suraj Sharma Returns to IFFI with the Enthralling Premiere of This Tempting Madness)
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