When Slumdog Millionaire hit the headlines, one thing grabbed the attention of the viewing public — the kids. Twelve-year-old Harsh Mayyar, however, is not from this particular movie — he is from the same neighbourhood, but in a different state. Rubina Sheikh and the other young stars of Slumdog Millionaire were from Mumbai. Harsh lives in the Dakshinpuri slum area of New Delhi.
So, who exactly is young Harsh? He’s the protagonist of the film, I am Kalam, which portrays the life of a destitute child who works at a roadside eatery (or dhaba) and dreams to make it big.
How big? Pat comes the answer “…As big as the life of former President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam!”
Set in the deserts of Bikaner, Rajasthan, I Am Kalam has been selected for 16 film festivals and has won several accolades. “I am happy that the world has recognised the attempt to portray the aspirations of so many children like me who want to study and become successful in life,” says Harsh, who, at 12, is no novice to the field of acting. He’s been acting since he was six years old!
So, does he like to do anything else? The list is pretty long! “I like singing, dancing, and of course acting,” he says firmly, “And later in life, I want to be in the entertainment field. Acting, dancing, choreography, singing – I love them all.”
And he’s sticking to his guns when it comes to his chosen career path. “I recently completed the shooting of three episodes of Koko Ki Story Bori, a series to be telecast on Pogo. In April, I made it till the fourth round of Dance India Dance. I didn’t get a chance to miss any of my passions since I used to sing and dance even on the sets,” laughs Harsh.
But Harsh does not underestimate the power of education. “Studies are always present both in real and reel life (in I Am Kalam). While filming, I carried my books with me. And so did my co-star Hassan. We used to study between shoots and breaks but since the shoot was only for 24 days I didn’t miss out on much,” says the star, who is grateful to his teachers for their unconditional support.
“Whatever studies were pending, I was helped by the Smile Foundation. For me, it was a great boost and was something that encouraged me to take up remedial classes, catch up with what I missed, and keep up with my acting and singing,” he adds.
So what is he doing nowadays?
“Currently I’m focusing on my studies and have started preparing for the auditions of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa. I’m not having sugar or fried foods,” shares this fitness freak.
So, with this young star already on the highway to stardom, we shall keep our fingers crossed
and hope we see more such youngsters amongst the stars of tomorrow!