'Felt like misfit': Sohum Shah on 'class system' in Bollywood
What's the story
Actor-filmmaker Sohum Shah, who is riding high on the success of his latest film Crazxy, recently spoke about his journey and mental health struggles on SCREEN's The Suvir Saran Show. He disclosed that he developed an inferiority complex in Bollywood because of his problems with English. "There was a time when I used to feel quite inferior. I didn't know English back then," he said.
Industry struggles
Shah felt like a 'misfit' in the industry
Shah further elaborated on his experiences, saying, "The time I entered the industry, if you wanted to work in Bollywood but you didn't know English, you wouldn't ever get to play main lead characters. Around 2010-12, there was a notion, a class system." "I didn't know Al-Pacino, Game Of Thrones... If you went to clubs... I would feel like a misfit. I spent a decade like this."
Personal struggles
'I didn't know how to even...'
Shah also shared some personal anecdotes, emphasizing his struggle with English in everyday life. "I didn't know how to even order a cappuccino at a cafe. Now it's gotten better." "I still cannot speak properly, even today. If we go to a high-end restaurant to eat, I ask my wife to order food because it's tough for me."
Therapy benefits
Shah's journey to therapy and mental health awareness
Shah spoke about his journey to therapy. "I knew since 2012 about my mental health issues, but I didn't go to a therapist because I was scared that I would go mad." "It took me 10 years to acknowledge my issues. I never felt ashamed going to therapy. I saw a friend going to one and I started too. Therapy helped me a lot."