The Art of Becoming: Rajit Kapur Decodes the Discipline of Acting on Day Two of RIFF 2026
“OTT Is Not Just Entertainment, It Gives Local Stories a Global Platform” – Praveen Singhal : Co-founder & CCO Stage OTT
The second day of the 12th edition of the Rajasthan International Film Festival (RIFF) 2026 witnessed an engaging blend of cinema, dialogue, and thought-provoking discussions. More than 19 films were screened at Miraj Cinemas, Blue City Mall, drawing large audiences and vibrant participation from cinema lovers across the city.In a compelling masterclass session, veteran actor Rajit Kapur spoke at length about the craft of acting, character preparation, and the discipline required for young artists entering the profession.
In conversation with RIFF Co-Founder and Festival Director Anshu Harsh, Kapur emphasized that acting has no fixed formula. “Every character begins with a starting point,” he said, adding that in nearly 90 percent of cases, the script and story serve as that foundation. “The script is the seed from which a character is born. In some cases, the director’s vision becomes the starting base.”
He advised actors to understand a director’s vision rather than merely their emotions. Comparing an actor to wet clay, Kapur said flexibility is essential. “If the clay dries, there is no scope for change or growth.”
Recalling his National Award-winning performance in The Making of the Mahatma, he noted that challenges push an artist forward. “If a role feels too easy, I am not interested. It is the difficult roles that make me question myself and that is when I choose them.”
Addressing young aspirants, he remarked that becoming an actor requires passion bordering on madness. He also revealed that throughout his career, he has never kept a mobile phone near him while performing, as it disrupts concentration.
Anshu Harsh added that such sessions not only teach the nuances of cinema but also instill values of discipline and dedication in young minds.
The day also featured a dynamic talk show titled “OTT Raga: Crafting Stories in the Streaming Era.” The panel included Praveen Singhal (CCO and Co-founder of STAGE OTT), film and television actor Suzanne Bernert, musician-actor Ratul Shankar and Bengali filmmaker Satrajit Sen. The discussion was moderated by Anshu Harsh.
Praveen Singhal highlighted the transformative role of OTT platforms. “OTT today is not merely a medium of entertainment; it is a powerful platform giving local stories a global stage,” he said.
He explained that while rural and small-town India has historically faced a lack of theatre infrastructure, the rise of mobile internet has removed that barrier. Through regional-language content in Haryanvi, Rajasthani, Bhojpuri, and Gujarati, STAGE has demonstrated that authentic, grassroots storytelling does not require big stars or massive budgets. With nearly 6 million paid subscribers, he noted, regional cinema has proven its commercial viability.
Suzanne Bernert observed that web series occupy a unique space between films and television. “There are stories that cannot be told in a two-hour film or a daily TV format. OTT opens space for layered narratives and deeper performances,” she said, adding that language and dialogue must always serve the story organically.
Ratul Shankar shared that OTT platforms have created significant opportunities for artists, musicians, and directors who earlier struggled to find space within mainstream banners. “Talent now matters more than stardom,” he remarked.
Director Satrajit Sen underlined the social responsibility of content creators. While OTT may not always be bound by traditional censorship, he stressed the importance of self-regulation and positive storytelling, noting that cinema and digital platforms deeply influence society.
The session concluded with a collective sentiment: India has no shortage of talent, it simply needs the right platforms. OTT and film festivals together are shaping the future of storytelling. The Session was Powered by Stage OTT.
21 films were screened on the second day across genres including short films, feature films, documentaries, animation, and music videos.
