Mumbai, March 4 Actor Sidhant, known for his work in the streaming series 'Jubilee' and 'Freedom at Midnight', has spoken about his origins in Jammu. He wondered if fiction could ever capture the reality that people in Kashmir have experienced.
For him, Mumbai might be his stage, but Jammu is his true home. Sidhant sees his connection to Jammu not just as nostalgia, but as an active creative inheritance, where Jammu's proximity to Kashmir has subtly and powerfully influenced the characters he has portrayed and been entrusted with.
He said, "It's fascinating how two of my most prominent roles originated not far from Jammu. Thinking about it must have helped in getting the roles. My breakthrough role as Jay Khanna in 'Jubilee' was in Karachi, which was part of India at the time. And the recent role of the first Prime Minister of India, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, was born in Kashmir. We're obviously from the same state".
Growing up, visits to Kashmir left a lasting impression on him, which later translated into a more serious and in-depth understanding of the region's complex and painful history when he took on the role of Nehru.
He further added, "How I cherish my visits to Kashmir growing up! But beyond that, I was able to study and understand the trauma of Kashmir. I wonder if fiction will ever truly capture the reality that the people of Kashmir have lived".
Perhaps, the most telling measure of Sidhant's connection to his roots is revealed in a far quieter and simpler moment. When asked if there are times when he feels most connected to his origins, his answer is immediate and instinctive.
"Yes, every time my performance is appreciated, I see the smiling faces of my family and friends from back home in my mind," he added.