Vivek Oberoi, one of Bollywood’s most respected actors, has opened up about a lesser-known chapter from his early career—working as an assistant to renowned choreographer and filmmaker Farah Khan. In a candid interview with Mashable India, Oberoi shared that he deliberately hid his identity as the son of veteran actor Suresh Oberoi while learning the ropes under Farah Khan. His journey from sweeping rehearsal rooms to serving tea for dancers is a powerful testament to discipline, humility, and the value of starting from the ground up.
The Humble Beginnings
Vivek Oberoi’s revelation has surprised fans and industry insiders alike. He explained that, despite his family’s strong presence in Bollywood, he chose to keep his background private when he began assisting Farah Khan. “I never told anybody who my dad was. I kept that out,” Oberoi said, emphasizing that he wanted to earn his place through hard work rather than privilege. His tasks included cleaning rehearsal rooms, organizing props, and serving tea to dancers—menial jobs that taught him the importance of discipline and respect for every role in the filmmaking process.
Oberoi’s decision to remain anonymous was not just about humility; it was a conscious effort to learn the craft from the inside. “Starting from the ground level gave me a sense of discipline and respect for the craft,” he added. This approach allowed him to absorb the nuances of choreography and direction, skills that would later shape his own career as an actor and producer.
Learning from the Masters
Working under Farah Khan, known for her sharp choreography and directorial flair, was a formative experience for Oberoi. He recalled how the environment was demanding yet nurturing, with every task contributing to his growth. “To train, I used to assist Farah for a long time. I started from cleaning the rehearsal rooms and bringing tea to all the dancers, and from there I went up,” he said. This hands-on experience gave him a unique perspective on the collaborative nature of filmmaking, where every role—no matter how small—plays a crucial part in the final product.
Oberoi’s journey is a reminder that success in Bollywood is not just about talent or connections; it’s about perseverance and a willingness to learn from every opportunity. His story resonates with aspiring actors and professionals across industries, highlighting the value of humility and hard work.
The Masti Prank: A Bond Beyond Work
While discussing his early days, Oberoi also shared a light-hearted anecdote from the sets of the first Masti film in 2004. The cast, including Aftab Shivdasani, Riteish Deshmukh, and himself, played a prank on Shivdasani, who had recently purchased a new luxury car. Oberoi and his co-stars secretly took the car’s keys, moved the vehicle a couple of lanes away, and then quietly placed the keys back near Shivdasani. When Shivdasani came out and couldn’t locate his car, he was momentarily stunned and anxious. Only after a few tense moments did the team reveal the joke, prompting Shivdasani to warn them against repeating such tricks with his belongings.
Oberoi shared this memory with amusement, underscoring the camaraderie and enduring bond between the Masti cast. “It’s these moments that make the journey memorable,” he said. The prank, though harmless, became a legendary story among the cast and fans, symbolizing the fun and friendship that defined their time together.
A Legacy of Discipline and Humility
Vivek Oberoi’s story is not just about his early struggles; it’s about the values he carried forward. His father, Suresh Oberoi, is a respected figure in Indian cinema, but Vivek has always emphasized that his success is the result of his own efforts. “My father groomed me regarding economics and business from a very young age, but he never helped me financially,” Oberoi revealed in a previous interview. This upbringing instilled in him a strong work ethic and a sense of independence.
Oberoi’s journey from assistant to leading actor is a powerful narrative of resilience and determination. His willingness to start from the bottom, learn from every experience, and maintain humility has earned him respect across the industry. As he continues to inspire new generations of actors, his story serves as a reminder that true success is built on hard work, discipline, and a commitment to excellence.
Conclusion
Vivek Oberoi’s revelation about his time as Farah Khan’s assistant is more than just a behind-the-scenes anecdote; it’s a lesson in humility, discipline, and the value of starting from the ground up. His journey from sweeping rehearsal rooms to starring in blockbuster films is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of earning one’s place through hard work. For fans and aspiring professionals alike, Oberoi’s story is a powerful reminder that success is not just about talent or connections—it’s about the willingness to learn, grow, and stay grounded.
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