An actor, writer, and musician, Shashank Arora is known for his off-beat performances in movies like Titli, and Brahman Naman. He, in fact, is the only Indian actor whose movies have competed at both, Cannes (Titli) and the Sundance Film Festival (Brahman Naman).
Early Life
Born and raised in New Delhi, India, Shashank always wanted to make his career in the performing arts. After completed his high school education, he shifted his base to Montreal, Canada to study and understand nuances of cinema and music. In 2008, he moved to the city of dreams, Mumbai, to try his luck in the world of glamor. Amidst all the things that he strives to do, the actor, in an interview to a leading daily, said, “My purpose is to love, be loved and discuss this existence and to be aware of it. Nothing more and nothing less,”.
Movie Career
In 2014, Shashank Arora made his feature film debut with the critically acclaimed drama film Titli. Produced by Aditya Chopra and Dibakar Banerjee, the movie premiered at the Cannes Film Festival. For his portrayal of the titular character, Shahshank drew praises from all over the world and in India, received nominations for the Best Debut Actor at Stardust, Filmfare, Star Screen and Zee Cine Awards.
His next release was the adult comedy film Brahman Naman, which was first screened at the 2016 Sundance Film Festival and was India's first Netflix release. The film directed by Qaushiq Mukherjee chronicles three teenaged boys from Banglore, who are desperate to lose their virginity. The movie was criticized for its cliched comedy, with Livemint calling it, “aggressively silly”.
His last release in 2016 includes the musical drama film Rock On 2. Directed by Shujaat Saudagar, the movie is a sequel to the 2008 film Rock On!! and features Farhan Akhtar, Arjun Rampal, Purab Kohli, Shashank Arora, and Shraddha Kapoor in lead roles.
His 2017 release includes Lipstick Under My Burkha, which stars Konkona Sen Sharma, Ratna Pathak, Aahana Kumra and Plabita Borthakur in the lead roles along with Sushant Singh, Vikrant Massey, and Shashank Arora in supporting characters. Produced by Prakash Jha, the movie was showcased at various Mumbai Film festivals.