What does it take for someone born and raised outside India to make it in Bollywood?
In this episode of India: A Story in the Making, we explore the incredible journey of Taha Shah Badussha, the standout star of Netflix's Heeramandi, directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. For Taha, a 'Gulf Boy,' it took 14-15 years of relentless struggle to achieve this success.
What inspired a boy with Indian roots, raised in the Gulf, to pursue acting? How did he overcome the challenges? And what advice does he have for aspiring actors aiming for Bollywood? Join us as we dive into Taha's story during his recent visit to London, filled with passion, perseverance, and valuable insights.
ABOUT
Taha Shah Badussha
Born in Abu Dhabi to Dr. Shah Sikkander Badusha and Mahnaz Sikkander Badusha, Taha's education spanned several countries. He studied in Abu Dhabi, India, and Sharjah, but left college early to pursue his passion for acting at the New York Film Academy in Abu Dhabi.
Taha initially worked with his mother in various businesses and did some modeling. When the 2008 financial crisis hit, fate led him to acting. Taha moved to Mumbai and debuted as a lead in Yash Raj's "Luv Ka The End." Discovered by casting director Shanoo Sharma, he secured roles in prominent films like Karan Johar's "Gippi," "Barkhaa," and "Baar Baar Dekho.”
Taha’s big break came recently with the Netflix series "Heeramandi," where he played the character of Tajdaar.
INDIAN FILM INDUSTRY
The Indian film industry is the largest in the world in terms of the number of films produced, with 1,500-2,000 films created annually in over 20 languages. While Hollywood in the USA leads globally in influence, revenue, and production quality, Indian films hold significant potential not only within India but also among the Indian diaspora in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Pakistan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.
In 2024, the cinema market revenue in India is projected to reach US$4.63 billion, with an annual growth rate of 5.50% leading to a market volume of US$6.05 billion by 2029. The number of viewers is expected to reach 653.2 million by 2029, with user penetration increasing from 38.7% in 2024 to 43.5% by 2029. The average revenue per viewer is projected at US$8.31.
Globally, for the Indian films, most revenue will be generated in the United States, amounting to US$20,980 million in 2024, with key regions including Europe, France, Asia, the United Kingdom, and Germany.
FULL VIDEO
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