With over a decade in the industry, actor Saurabh Goyal has built his career steadily. From early work in Chhori to his recent appearances in Daldal and Sankalp, he has navigated phases of uncertainty, struggle and the constant wait for the right opportunity. In this conversation, Goyal looks back at the setbacks that changed his perspective, the importance of waiting for the right opportunities, and the kind of roles he still hopes to explore. He also shares a deeply personal milestone with us, as he and his wife prepare to welcome their first child.
Excerpts:
You’ve already had a 10-year career. What’s that one incident that changed your perspective forever?
There was a time in my career when I wasn’t getting much work, and it was quite a low point for me. I auditioned for a very small part, and just wanted to work, so I gave it my best. After the audition, the casting director told me, “Your audition is really good, but I don’t want to cast you in this because I feel you’re meant for bigger parts.” At that moment, I was simply looking for an opportunity, so it felt overwhelming. But that stayed with me. Interestingly, I later did get cast in a much bigger role, which reinforced something I had begun to understand that not every ‘no’ is a rejection; sometimes it’s just about timing.
You’ve worked with Akshay Kumar in Sarfira. What’s that one anecdote that has stayed with you?
When my parents visited the set of Sarfira, I had made them sit in a corner because I didn’t want any disturbance during the shoot. After a shot, I mentioned to Akshay Kumar sir that my parents were on set and would like to meet him. The first thing he asked was, “Where are they?” And when I told him they were sitting in a corner, he immediately said, “Why are they sitting there? Ask them to come here.” What stayed with me was that he didn’t just call them, he walked up to them himself, met them warmly, spoke with great respect, and then asked them to sit near the monitor so they could experience the filmmaking process. That was a very kind and generous gesture. Professionally, it also reminded me that no matter how successful you become, it’s important to carry humility and inclusiveness with you.
You got married while shooting for Sankalp. Nana Patekar playfully warned you not to get married. How was your experience working with him?
Yes, during the shoot of Sankalp, I was getting married, and everyone on set knew I would be taking a short break. Nana Patekar sir, in his own unique style, would often pull my leg about it, it was all in great humour, and I really enjoyed that camaraderie with him. When it was time for me to leave for my wedding, he was very warm and gracious, and gave me his blessings, which meant a lot to me. What really stood out for me was how approachable he is. Despite his stature, he makes you feel very comfortable. He would often call me to sit next to him and have conversations, not just about work, but about life and those moments really stay with you. One thing he told me that I carry with me is to never think of yourself as any less, and to have complete faith in your abilities.
How do you look back at your journey?
I have a lot more to offer as an actor. I’ve been fortunate to work with some accomplished people, and in whatever roles I’ve done, my work has consistently been appreciated. One compliment that has stayed with me is that my performances feel effortless, that people don’t see the acting, they see the character. I’ve also taken on challenging work, like a single-character film Accelerator and a 70-minute single take project, which gave me the confidence that I can carry a narrative. At the same time, I haven’t yet had that one opportunity to fully explore my range on a larger scale. But I believe in timing. For me, it’s about staying ready, continuing to grow, and trusting that the right opportunity will come.
Nagesh Kukunoor has cast you repeatedly, calling you an actor with ‘repeat value’. Could you elaborate?
My first experience working with Nagesh Kukunoor was on a film that never got released. But I still remember, after my very first take, he said, “Great, I don’t need another take, and you’ll definitely be in my next project.” That was a big moment for me and gave me a lot of confidence in my craft. True to his word, he cast me in multiple projects after that, including The Test Case, City of Dreams, and a cineplay. That kind of trust from a filmmaker is very special. What stands out about him is his simplicity and clarity. His sets are calm, his approach is very real, and as an actor, you feel completely at ease.
Daldal released this year and you’re about to begin a new journey as a parent. How are you feeling?
It’s been a very special phase for me. With Daldal and Sankalp releasing, it feels like a very positive start to the year professionally. At the same time, I’m about to begin a completely new journey in my personal life. Ever since we found out we’re going to be parents, there’s been a different kind of happiness and excitement. It’s a feeling that’s hard to describe, you can only truly understand it when you experience it. In a way, it already feels like a very positive phase, almost like the child is bringing a lot of positive energy into our lives. As they say, every child brings their own blessings. It has also made me more aware and responsible. It motivates me to work harder, be more focused, and grow not just as an actor, but as a person, a husband, and now, a father.
How are you preparing for this new role as a parent?
The moment you realise you’re going to be a parent, it gives you a lot of food for thought. You naturally start looking at life a little differently. The preparation has been more internal. I’ve become more conscious of the kind of environment I want to create, whether it’s the conversations I have, the people I spend time with, or even everyday choices. You want your child to grow up around a certain kind of energy, and that makes you more aware of yourself. It also makes you more responsible. You start thinking beyond yourself, and that naturally pushes you to be more focused and consistent, especially in your work. In a way, it’s not just about preparing for a child, it’s about working on yourself and becoming a better person.
What’s next for you on the work front?
I’m keen to explore more layered and substantial roles and collaborate with filmmakers who are telling unique and compelling stories. I really admire the kind of work directors like Neeraj Ghaywan and Aditya Dhar are doing, and I would love to collaborate with voices like theirs. I feel I’m ready for that phase, and I’m excited about what lies ahead.
Also Read: Nana Patekar To Make OTT Debut With Prakash Jha’s Political Thriller Sankalp; Trailer Out Now
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