Sahil: Being a part of the pre-Oscar party as big opportunity

Sahil Salathia is beaming with pride after representing India at the pre-Oscars party, held in Los Angeles (US) recently. For the model actor, this opportunity has put him on the global map.

“It was exciting to be a part of the pre-Oscar party for South Asian excellence and to get a chance to represent my country on such a major platform. It’s my first red carpet appearance in Hollywood, and I can’t be more grateful,” Salathia tells us.

At the party, he met comedianSingh, actors such as Lilly Kal Penn and designer Tan France. “I felt so proud to be in the same room as them because they have been in Hollywood for years,” says the Adhura actor, adding, “Every time an actor represents their country on a platform like this, it comes with a lot of pressure and pride. And I am taking both, pressure and pride in good light. It will have a great impact on my career as well; it’s a huge medal on my chest.”

The 35-year-old feels the Academy is noting South Asian talent. “Now, there are so many South Asian names in Hollywood, especially a trailblazer like Priyanka Chopra Jonas (actor), who was the first one to make an impact at such a huge level. She’s an icon, and we need more icons like her,” shares Salathia. While he acknowledges that South Asian talent is getting its due recognition at the Oscars, “but it can definitely get better”.

“The fact that I was invited to attend the event even though I am a Mumbai-based actor working in Bollywood says there’s a lot of representation already, and it’s only getting better. However, we need to keep working on getting more recognition in the West,” he ends.