Mumbai: Having successfully balanced acting, production and entrepreneurship, Dinesh Soni believes that today’s artists need to think beyond the camera. Drawing from his own journey, he says understanding both the creative and business sides of entertainment not only makes an artist more responsible but also prepares them for a constantly evolving industry.
Reflecting on how producing changed his perspective, he said, “I believe when a creative person also understands the business side, they become far more responsible. As an actor, you naturally focus on your craft, but as a producer or entrepreneur, you also think about budgets, resources, and the overall success of the project.”
“It teaches you to balance creativity with practicality. You become more mindful of unnecessary costs and start looking at every project from the producer’s perspective as well. This mindset helps deliver quality work while making the best use of available resources. In the end, it’s not just about being creative, it’s about being responsible,” he added.
Sharing why he encourages actors to diversify, Dinesh said, “Absolutely. I believe every actor, and in fact every professional, should always have a Plan B. No one knows what the future holds, so it’s important to be prepared if your primary career takes an unexpected turn.”
He mentioned that many of the biggest actors in the industry have successfully diversified their careers, adding, “They are not just actors anymore. They are producers, entrepreneurs, restaurateurs, and investors. Shah Rukh Khan built Red Chillies Entertainment, Ajay Devgn has ventured into multiple businesses, Shilpa Shetty has invested in restaurants and wellness, and Vivek Oberoi is a great example of someone who has built a strong business portfolio alongside acting.”
“For me, acting and being an on stage performer will always be my first love, but I strongly believe in creating opportunities beyond acting. Having a Plan B not only provides financial security but also gives you the freedom to grow, diversify, and reinvent yourself whenever you choose,” he concluded.
