Preparing Performers

Kher expressed his gratitude for Modi’s support for the cause,and remarked,”Gujarat is undoubtedly the number one state in terms of development and ye wo log bhi jaante hain jo Modi ko pasand nahi karte. But,cinema and the cultural department has been on the backseat here,although Gujarat has lots of talent.”

He proposed setting up of a film wing and also a separate fund for cinema,so that people come and make films in the State. He also informed that next July,an international seminar would be planned with Gujarati performers from across the world.

Commending Kher for his initiative,Modi said that ever since Kher spoke to him a year ago about his school,requesting him to inaugurate it,he never tried to contact him expecting any form of government aid. “This shows his passion and commitment for the work he is doing. Actor Prepares will not only produce ‘prepared’ actors,but also ‘pre-paid’ actors (who would bag roles even before their course completion)!” Modi said.

Saying that politicians too,needed some voice training (given that they’ve to address large gatherings),Modi quipped that otherwise media would come up with speculative ideas like “Modi ke gale ke kaaran chunaao par kya prabhav padega!”

Terming his school as a ‘modern Shantiniketan’,Kher said,”We don’t follow old traditions of acting,but teach what is currently working. What matters is the person’s passion. It’s also important to have family support,and also how much he/she can learn.” Stressing the role of training,irrespective of a course duration,he said,”Training prepares you,gives you a grounding. The rest depends on you. And today’s generation have a very good grasping power,their IQ and EQ levels are much higher than my generation.”

Spread over 2.5 acres,Actor Prepares- Ahmedabad is offering a 3-months course that trains students in acting,creative body movements,voice culture,diction and speech,martial arts and dance among others. Students will not only be mentored by the actor himself,but would also be guided by industry veterans. The school also boasts of a fully-equipped auditorium,library,gymnasium,swimming pool and horse-riding facilities.