Home / Arts and Entertainment / From Hospitality to Stardom: Actor's Hustle
From Hospitality to Stardom: Actor's Hustle
2 May
Summary
- Actor Shehzad Shaikh attributes success to persistence, not privilege.
- He transitioned from hospitality to a career in television acting.
- Television offers daily visibility, which is crucial for his career.

Actor Shehzad Shaikh, known by his surname Shaikh, identifies his lineage as Babi, noting Parveen Babi as his step-grandmother. However, he asserts his career is defined by persistence, not privilege. Shaikh's path began in hospitality, but after graduating, he pursued acting, a long-held desire. He worked in various roles, including stockbroking and cabin crew, before finding his footing in acting through episodic roles in shows like 'Savdhaan India'.
His initial big break came with 'Qubool Hai', followed by a film that provided valuable experience but stalled his career progression. Recognizing the business viability of television, Shaikh returned to the medium with 'Bepannaah' and 'Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai'. He also appeared in Vikram Bhatt's web series 'Anamika'.
Shaikh chose to prioritize a lead role on television over a film offer, emphasizing TV's consistent daily visibility and audience connection. He views television as his primary source of income and sustained presence, contrasting it with the less frequent exposure from films or web series.