How to Become an Actor: In India, After 12th, Steps, Acting Courses, Colleges, Salary 2024

How to Become an Actor in India Overview 

Becoming an actor in India requires multiple steps, such as finding auditions, building a portfolio, making the right connections, and working on one's acting skills. Formal education is not required for one to pursue a career in acting, but it helps build a foundation. After completing the 12th grade, aspiring actors can join various undergraduate degree and diploma programs such as the Bachelor of Arts in Acting (BA Acting), the Diploma in Acting, etc. Some of the top colleges offering these courses are the National School of Drama (Delhi), Film and Television Institute of India (Pune), Whistling Woods International (Mumbai), and Zee Institute of Media Arts (Mumbai).

Who is an Actor? 

An actor or actress is a person who portrays a character in a film, television show, theater production, or any other form of entertainment. To bring their characters to life, actors use their physical and emotional abilities to highlight a story. Acting requires creativity, talent, skill, training, and hard work, and only those actors who are consistent in their work achieve success. 

How to Become an Actor in India Quick Highlights 

The following table gives details of how to become an actor in India-

Fun Facts about How to Become an Actor in India 

Steps to Become an Actor in India 

Acting is a unique and versatile field, and there is no distinct course of action that every actor must follow to achieve success. However, there are certain steps that could simplify the process of how to become an actor in India-

Step 1: Develop Acting Skills

The more one works on their art, the better one will perform. Join a community theater and take part in independent productions, or student films. If required, join acting classes that will help to polish skills, improve speech clarity and movement, and help you gain overall confidence. 

Step 2: Create a Portfolio

A portfolio will consist of professional headshots taken by a photographer and attached to a resume of the actor-to-be.This is a mandatory requirement in the industry. 

Step 3: Consider an Agent

Agents deal with all the tasks that an actor might not be able to do on their own, like seeking out opportunities, negotiating contracts, and scheduling auditions. Some agents have connections in the industry, which is another big advantage.

Step 4: Go for Auditions

Casting calls are usually made over social media and on casting websites. Look out for opportunities in movies, radio, TV shows, and theater productions.

Step 5: Build a Network

An individual can join acting groups, and attend workshops, conferences, and industry events to gain exposure and build good relationships with other actors, directors, etc. This will help in getting more auditions and roles in upcoming projects.

How to Become an Actor in India after 12th?

Becoming an actor in India does not specifically require a degree or diploma in acting, but many performers benefit from a formal mode of training. In India, there are various universities and institutions that offer various programs in acting. The following are some of the acting courses below in India which are described in detail below-

Acting Courses in India

Bachelor of Arts in Acting (BA Acting): This is a three-year undergraduate program that focuses on the practical aspects of acting, such as voice modulation, body language, improvisation, and characterization.

Diploma in Acting: This is a one or two-year diploma course that provides students with intensive training in acting techniques, script analysis, and stagecraft. 

Certificate Course in Acting: This program could range from six months to a year and focuses on body language, character analysis, the basics of acting, improvisation, and facial expressions. 

Master of Arts in Theatre (MA Theatre): This is a two-year-long postgraduate course that provides an in-depth understanding of theater, its history, acting, directing, production, and design.

Salary of an Actor in India 2023 

There is no fixed salary for an actor, and it depends on several factors such as experience, the role, the budget of the project, and or popularity. Given below is an approximate amount that one earns-

List of Top Recruiters for Actors in India

A list of some of the top recruiters of actors in India is given below-

Skills required to become an Actor in India

1. Acting Skills: An actor should have strong acting skills, the right body language, and facial expressions, including the ability to portray a variety of emotions, create believable characters, and understand the script. 
2. Memorization: Actors need to be able to memorize their lines and cues quickly and correctly for better performances. 
3. Dancing and Singing: This is not a very mandatory skill to possess, but actors who are versatile in dancing or singing are often preferred over those who are not. 
4. Team Spirit: Acting is never done alone, and it involves working closely with many people like other actors, directors, crew members, etc., so it is required to have strong interpersonal skills as well. 
5. Physical Fitness: Acting can be physically and emotionally demanding, as separate roles require a separate set of capabilities, and actors must be able to maintain their energy for extended periods of time. 
6. Willingness to Learn: Actors must be keen on learning new techniques and skills as this field is constantly evolving, and only the people who are open to learning achieve fame. 

Benefits of becoming an Actor in India 

The following are some of the benefits of becoming an actor in India-

1. High Earnings: Successful Indian actors can earn large sums of money through film contracts, endorsements, and appearances. Some of the top Indian actors are among the highest-paid actors in the world. 
2. Fame and Recognition: Indian actors are often regarded as celebrities and are widely recognized by the public. With fame comes recognition and respect, and this can lead to lucrative endorsement deals, guest appearances, and other opportunities. 
3. Creative Satisfaction: Becoming an actor in India can provide the opportunity to express oneself creatively and to work with some of the most talented people in the film industry. 
4. Representation: Actors are often invited to various events in India and all over the world, which gives them an opportunity to represent their country on a global scale.  
5. Social Impact: The Indian film industry has a significant impact on Indian society, and actors can use their platform to raise awareness about critical issues and inspire positive change. 
6. Travel Opportunities: The Indian film industry is not limited to India, and successful actors can travel internationally for film festivals, shoots, and other events.