Vedang Raina might be one of the most buzzed-about young actors in Bollywood right now, but he wasn’t always sure a film career would happen. Before The Archies changed his life, he had a whole other plan lined up — and it involved a very different kind of degree.
The actor got candid about his journey, admitting that five years ago, things looked very different. If that Netflix audition hadn’t landed, he would’ve likely taken the corporate route. “Five years ago, my job placements were ready. If I didn’t land that Archies’ audition, I was close to getting work experience and probably doing a master’s degree,” he shared.
The Audition That Changed Everything
Looking back, Vedang knows how close he was to missing the acting bus. The Zoya Akhtar directorial The Archies wasn’t just his debut — it was the turning point that made everything else possible. Since then, he’s followed up with the critically appreciated Jigra and is now gearing up for Imtiaz Ali’s period romance Main Vaapas Aaunga.
But even with two notable projects under his belt, Vedang refuses to feel like he’s made it. “I don’t consider myself big yet, I’m just starting out and I’m just privileged to even be part of an Imtiaz Ali film. These are things that were beyond my imagination even about five years ago. I try to put things into perspective for myself sometimes,” he told a news outlet.
Staying Grounded Despite Success
The actor says he regularly reminds himself of those uncertain days to stay grounded. The attention and praise haven’t gone to his head — in fact, he admits he doesn’t even feel successful yet. “I need to remind myself of that sometimes because right now I don’t feel successful. I don’t feel like I’ve even begun and I think of what the Vedang five years ago must have felt. So, I need to remind myself every day that I have a long way to go and I want to achieve certain milestones as an artiste, but I’m also proud of where I’ve reached today.”
It’s a refreshing dose of humility from someone who could easily rest on his laurels. Instead of getting caught up in the hype, Vedang is focused on learning and growing — and making the most of opportunities that once seemed like a distant dream.
What’s Next For Vedang?
All eyes are now on his next release, Main Vaapas Aaunga, where he’ll share screen space with Sharvari, Diljit Dosanjh, and veteran Naseeruddin Shah. The film marks his first collaboration with Imtiaz Ali, a milestone he calls a privilege. Apart from acting, Vedang has also lent his voice to the track Maskara, adding another creative feather to his cap.
With The Archies and Jigra as his launchpad, Vedang is clearly in no rush. He’s taking things step by step — and reminding himself that even the biggest dreams can start with a backup plan.