Meet 26-year-old Eshan Shanker who makes his Bollywood debut with 'Machine'

Eshan Shanker

Eshan Shanker, who has previously assisted on Dharma Productions' projects, Gippi (2013) and 2 States (2014), will soon make his big screen debut. He plays a pivotal role in director duo Abbas-Mustan upcoming release, Machine. Bagging the film gave the 26-year-old insight into the casting process, and he feels the film industry is free of favouritism.

"I come from a middle-class family, with absolutely no connect to Bollywood. I am grateful to have superb mentors in Abbas sir and Mustan sir. So, as far as my personal experience goes, I haven't faced any nepotism-related hurdle. Despite Mustafa's [Abbas' son] launch in Machine, I didn't feel shortchanged at any level," says Eshan.

During the shoot of Two States, Eshan mustered the courage to go up to filmmaker Karan Johar. What happened next convinced him that talent and hard work are the only criteria for success. "I walked into Karan sir's office and told him I wanted to be an actor. He said I should work hard towards my goal and be able to make a name for myself in Bollywood. He encouraged me, although he didn't have to. I was an assistant director, after all. Those words really made me believe in my dreams," added Eshan.