Becoming a casting director isn’t just about choosing the right faces for the screen; it’s about understanding people, looking beyond the surface and working together to bring stories to life.
We started talking Shruti Mahajan, the casting genius behind Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Heeramandi, and iconic titles such as Bajirao Mastani, Gangubai Kathiawadi, The Great Bull, Lipstick under my burqa, Padman, Maria Kom, Satyagraha, Ghoomer, Lust stories 2and much more.
She shared insights from her journey and tips for aspiring casting directors.
FROM HR OFFICE TO FILM SETS: A JOURNEY FULL OF PASSION
Shruti Mahajan’s journey started far beyond the world of cinema. “Like many, I grew up in a household where academic excellence was highly valued,” she recalls.
But her heart was always focused on the film. “And I wanted to do my part to make these magical worlds and stories a reality.”
After her studies, she started in HR at a bank, but soon realized that her true calling lay elsewhere.
“I made an unconventional career move and found my way to assisting in a casting cell at one of the bigger production houses in India,” says Shruti.
Here she learned the trade and worked with like-minded professionals who fueled her passion. From then on, her solo journey began, releasing groundbreaking projects such as RamLeela And Chakravyuh.
Working with directors like Bhansali, Prakash Jha, Alankrita Shrivastava and R Balki, Shruti has carved out her niche.
Today, with more than 51 films and TV series to her credit, she has become a pivotal figure in Indian cinema.
Shruti Mahajan with Sanjay Leela Bhansali
THE CORE SKILLS EVERY CASTING DIRECTOR NEEDS
Formal education pathways may be lacking, but Shruti says one skill stands out: empathy.
“A casting team meets so many talented individuals during a project. The ability to truly see, hear and recognize someone for who they are is crucial,” she explains.
“It not only helps you interact with artists and actors, but also helps you understand a character’s needs to find the right cast to realize a director’s creative vision and deliver cinematic magic,” she says .
Shruti also emphasizes curiosity about people. “The best casting often goes against type: when someone sees latent potential in an artist and helps them release it. That kind of magic can only happen when you care about someone and receive them in their absolute and honest truth.”
LEARN THE CRAFT WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK
For aspiring casting directors on a budget, Shruti offers practical advice: “The only real budget needed is your sweat equity and passion for films.” She recommends assisting experienced casting directors to gain practical knowledge.
“Unfortunately, there are no institutions where you can enroll and learn the art and craft of casting, but fortunately there are individuals – individuals who have dedicated a large portion of their time and lives to learning and understanding the craft and the business of casting,” she says. say.
She notes the importance of starting in a space where you feel safe to share ideas, try new things and contribute. Working with an experienced casting director not only offers you that environment, but also teaches you the ins and outs of the trade, including useful tips and common pitfalls.
And while it may not be a structured course, it is an intensive learning process that starts and if you commit to it – God willing, it is often very rewarding,” she says.
Another accessible way to learn? Volunteer to cast for student films or low-budget projects. “It’s a great way to understand the creative and logistical phases of casting while building a network.”
Shruti Mahajan during an audition
NAVIGATE NETWORKS AND FIND YOUR TRIBE
Networking is often touted as the key to success, but Shruti sees it differently. “Good work speaks for itself, and I believe good work comes from an honest heart,” she says.
For her, finding like-minded employees is more about sincerity than strategy. “As long as you do your work with dedication, honesty and an optimistic, positive attitude, you will always find a supportive community. After all, species recognize each other, don’t they?”
“Social media, film festivals and live theater are great places to meet creatives. Reach out to those who inspire you; After all, the world always needs more art and artists,” she advises.
THE MARKET TODAY: BIGGER DREAMS, GREAT STORIES
Shruti Mahajan is optimistic about the future of casting directors. “As audiences return to theaters and OTT platforms boom, filmmakers are dreaming bigger than ever,” she says.
“OTT platforms are bringing in stories and spectacles with such grand ambition that working on projects like Mr Bhansali’s Heeramandi is a treat in itself.”
She is enthusiastic about the way in which stories are now being explored that might otherwise never have seen the light of day.
She points to an encouraging trend: more and more stories by and about women are being told. “As a woman, I am proud that I can contribute to this change in my own way.”
For newcomers, the timeless advice is: “Do good work and help create good art and good content with good people.”
Casting direction is an art that combines intuition, empathy and collaboration. Shruti Mahajan’s story proves that even unconventional paths can lead to fulfilling careers.
If you are willing to put in the effort, embrace curiosity, and learn from those around you, then you can explore this creative field.
Published on:
November 17, 2024