New Delhi: Actors Jim Sarbh and Amit Sadh, speaking at TV9 Network’s What India Thinks Today Global Summit 2025, opened up about their respective journeys. While Jim Sarbh reflected on the evolving dynamics of the Indian film industry, Amit Sadh clarified his stance on a controversial statement regarding not having “achieved anything”.
While Sarbh is celebrated for his roles in Padmaavat, Made In Heavenand Rocket BoysSadh is best known for Breathe, Kai po che, Durangaand Kyun hota hai pyarrr.
Speaking at TV9’s Global Summit, Jim Sarbh highlighted how indie films are gaining recognition at international festivals, even as some continue to face criticism. He said: “RRR, All We Imagine As Lightand Girls Will Be Girls are good examples, and all these films had great festival runs. Even in earlier years, Marathi films like The Disciple and Court represented India in incredible ways at top-tier festivals. So, I think two things are happening: first, the rise of slightly different types of Indie storytelling that’s finally having its day in the festival circuit. The other is a film I’ve co-produced, Patience Bonda — a truly beautiful film and the first Indian production to win the World Cinema Grand Jury Award at Sundance. There’s also another Bengali film that recently premiered in Berlin. It’s a very special time for these deeply rooted stories.”
Sarbh also expressed concern over how certain films are unfairly judged due to perceptions of an “outsider” gaze. He elaborated: “I know some films are torn down for what people say are foreign gazes looking inwards. I think that happens with certain kinds of films made by outsiders as well, but my point is that an Indian made it, so I don’t think they are catering to some kind of foreign film festival. They are trying to tell a story based on what they admire.”
Amit Sadh clarified his previous remarks about not having “achieved anything”, stating: “You know, some lines become statements, and I am grateful you asked for its meaning to me. When I said that I haven’t achieved something, I never said that I didn’t receive anything. I am very grateful for all the opportunities that I have got, and yes, I have worked hard. When I wake up in the morning, I feel I need to do more; I haven’t done much till now – that’s my process. I am not an ungrateful person. I am grateful to the people and my country that I got these opportunities. Because there must be so many in my place deserving those opportunities, that is what I meant.”
When asked whether he’s on the path to fame, he replied: “I think mine and Jim Sarbh’s journeys have been different, but we think alike. So, we are not looking towards the track of fame. We are artists, and we are here to perform. So, we are not in search of fame, but I know if you work hard, then this is also fame. You have called me and Jim to your stage so I believe, this is also fame. So obviously, we are doing something right.”
