"Maharashtrian youth should get opportunities in Bollywood. I have given a break to Sushant Thamke, a Marathi actor, in 'Pintu Ki Pappi.' He is highly talented and has risen through struggles. Marathi youth possess great skills, and if they get the right opportunities and platforms, they can prove themselves. They should seize such opportunities and contribute significantly to the film industry," said renowned choreographer, actor and director Ganesh Acharya.
The Suryadatta Institute of Performing Arts organised an interactive session with Acharya at its Bavdhan campus. The event was attended by Suryadatta’s founder and chairman Prof Dr Sanjay B Chordia, vice-chairperson Sushma Chordia, associate vice-chairperson Snehal Navlakha, CEO Akshit Kushal, along with principals, department heads, faculty members and a large number of students from various colleges.
At the event, Acharya was honoured with the ‘Suryadatta Excellence Award’, while actor Sushant Thamke, actress Janya Joshi and Vidhi Yadav received special recognition for their contributions.
Acharya said, "Artists from Delhi, Bhopal and Punjab come to Bollywood and make a name for themselves. I have always wondered why Maharashtrian youth don’t get similar opportunities. That’s why I chose Thamke for this film. Both lead actors in the movie are newcomers, but they have performed exceptionally well. I am confident that Thamke will make a mark in Bollywood. This is his debut film, which will be released worldwide on March 21, and I am thrilled about it."
Thamke expressed his gratitude, saying, "I completed my college education in Pune. It’s an honour that my first film is being promoted in Pune’s colleges. My journey from Nanded to Pune and now Mumbai has been truly rewarding. Initially, I had to struggle for years, but thanks to Acharya, I got this golden opportunity. This film will connect with audiences, and I hope for their love and support."
Chordia stated, "Suryadatta offers several academic programmes related to the film and art industry. As a result, film teams—both Marathi and Hindi—visit our institute before their movie releases to interact with our students, inspiring and motivating them. Many of our students later enter the film industry. If their talents are recognised and they are provided with the right platform, they too can make a name for themselves in this field. Acharya’s contributions have been inspiring to many. Industry veterans should support and mentor Marathi youth in the same way."
During the ‘Perform with Ganesh Acharya’ segment, students, faculty, and staff members got a chance to showcase their talents alongside him, making the event even more memorable. The session was hosted by Prof Dr Sunil Dhangar, and a vote of thanks was delivered by Snehal Navlakha.
