Faisal Malik | Actor | Producer | Interview With TheTalkStreet
Faisal Malik was born in Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh, is an Indian actor, best known for his role of Prahladcha “Prahlad Pandey” in Amazon Prime Video's Series “Panchayat”, Fraud Saiyaan, Dedh Bigha Zameen, Black Widows and Anurag Kashyap's movie Gangs of Wasseypur Part 2.
How did working on Panchayat change your career?
Working on Panchayat marked a significant turning point in my career. The role of Prahlad Chacha became a pivotal one for me, and I couldn’t have anticipated just how deeply it would resonate with the audience. The character's simplicity, warmth, and relatability made him beloved by viewers across the country, especially in small towns and rural areas where people saw glimpses of their own lives reflected in his journey.
The recognition and love I received for Prahlad Chacha was overwhelming. It not only elevated my career but also affirmed my belief in the power of genuine, heartfelt performances. The experience of working on Panchayat was immensely satisfying, not just because of the success, but because it connected me with people on an emotional level. The response from viewers truly boosted my career, opening up new opportunities and solidifying my place in the industry.
You’ve worked in various production roles before acting. How did those experiences help you as an actor?
Working in production taught me a lot about the industry from behind the scenes. As an assistant director, promo producer, and line producer, I gained a deep understanding of storytelling and filmmaking, which helped me approach acting with a broader perspective.
Can you tell us more about your experience on Gangs of Wasseypur?
It was an amazing experience. I didn’t expect to be part of it, but when the opportunity came, I took it. Working with a big star cast and under Anurag Kashyap’s direction was an honor. It really set the stage for my acting career.
Can you share some insights on your experience as a producer and the challenges that come with it?
Producing is often one of the most challenging and underappreciated jobs in the entertainment industry. It requires an enormous amount of dedication and hard work, most of which happens behind the scenes, away from the spotlight. From managing logistics, coordinating between different teams, handling budgets, and troubleshooting unexpected issues, the role of a producer is both mentally and physically demanding. Despite all this effort, the contributions of producers often go unnoticed, as the focus is usually on the actors, directors, and final product.
However, the real reward for a producer comes in the form of seeing the project come to life and connect with the audience. There’s an indescribable sense of fulfillment in watching something you helped create resonate with viewers, knowing that all the behind-the-scenes struggles have led to something meaningful. That final moment of connection, when the audience engages with the story or message of the project, makes all the hard work worthwhile. It's this feeling of accomplishment that keeps producers passionate about what they do, despite the challenges they face.
How have your various roles in the industry, such as assistant director and editor, shaped your approach to acting?
Working in different roles behind the camera has given me a deeper understanding of the filmmaking process. It has helped me appreciate the hard work that goes into creating a film, and that awareness helps me approach my acting roles with a more collaborative mindset. I’m able to see the bigger picture, which adds to my performances.
What advice would you give to aspiring actors who may face a similar struggle to yours?
I would encourage anyone to keep pushing forward, even when the path seems difficult or uncertain. My own journey in the industry wasn’t smooth or linear—I had to take on many different roles before I finally got my break in acting. From working behind the scenes as a producer and assistant director to eventually landing acting roles, each step was a part of the process.
It’s important to stay open to all kinds of opportunities, even the ones that don’t seem directly related to your ultimate goal. Often, these experiences teach you valuable lessons and open doors you never expected. My break in acting came unexpectedly, but because I was willing to embrace every opportunity that came my way, I was able to seize it when the moment arrived. The key is perseverance, flexibility, and always being ready for that one chance that can change everything.
What upcoming projects are you working on?
I’m currently working on a few projects, both in film and web series. It’s an exciting time, and I’m looking forward to sharing more of my work with the audience soon.
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