Meet Rohith Guttamidhi | Actor/Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rohith Guttamidhi and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rohith, how do you think about risk?
Growing up in Hyderabad, India, I was immersed in a society that highly valued conventional career paths such as IT, engineering, and medicine. Pursuing a career in the arts was often regarded as impractical, with a prevailing belief that it couldn’t offer a stable livelihood. However, my heart was drawn to the world of art, especially the transformative power of movies that evoked deep emotions and a sense of humanity within me.

The prospect of leaving my homeland and embarking on a journey to New York was both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. Boarding the airplane for the first time, I knew that pursuing my passion was the essence of true success, and I couldn’t let fear hold me back.

Arriving in the vibrant city of New York, I was immediately captivated by its bustling energy and diverse cultural tapestry. It was a whole new world, filled with excitement and overwhelming possibilities. In this foreign land, I took a leap of faith into the realms of acting and filmmaking. Though the journey was not without challenges, it also brought forth incredible opportunities to connect with like-minded artists who shared my unwavering love for creativity. Collaborating with these individuals, who understood the importance of art, became a blessing that I hold dear to my heart.

Taking the risk of leaving behind the familiar and embracing a new beginning in a foreign land has been a defining factor in shaping the course of my life. The support and belief of the fantastic people I’ve met along the way have been an unwavering pillar of strength, propelling me forward even during difficult times.

In a world where many fixate on the outcomes of risk-taking, be they positive or negative, I have come to cherish the journey itself. The ability to introduce myself as an actor and filmmaker, to immerse myself in storytelling and breathe life into narratives, fills me with an indescribable sense of fulfillment. The pursuit of my artistic dreams, not external validation, becomes the driving force of my career. Recognition, financial stability, or acclaim become secondary to the profound joy I find in expressing my creativity.

The risk I took to follow my passion has rewarded me in ways beyond my wildest imagination. It has enriched my life, offering personal growth, resilience, and a sense of purpose that I could have never experienced through conventional paths. Every step of this deeply personal and meaningful journey has been worth it, and I am grateful for the courage I found within myself to embrace risk and pursue my passion.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My journey into the world of arts, specifically in acting and filmmaking, is what fills me with the utmost pride. It all began with a deep fascination for storytelling and the transformative power of movies. Growing up in India, where traditional career paths were highly valued, I took a bold leap of faith to pursue my passion for the arts. Despite the entertainment industry seeming like a distant dream for someone from my background, I enrolled in a film school in India, where I was fortunate to have amazing faculty members who changed my perspective on entertainment and art, opening up new possibilities. My love for movies blossomed, and this passion compelled me to take risks and believe that anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve their dreams. It was a daring decision to unlearn the self-imposed limitations and embrace the belief that anyone can pursue their passions. Now, as an actor and filmmaker, I owe my journey to that courageous leap of faith.
My path led me to New York, where I immersed myself in the craft at The Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute. There, I met two lifelong collaborators, Emely de Paiva and Ermete De Boni, and together, we founded “The Chekovians” Theatre Company. Building and directing this company has been an incredibly fulfilling experience, and our production of “An Afternoon with Anton” garnered acclaim.
Currently, we’re working on another production, “The Cherry Orchard,” and I am thrilled to be part of it. Sometimes, I remind myself that I am living my dream, and that realization brings immense happiness.
My journey is not solely about reaching a destination; it’s about savoring every step of the process. I cherish the excitement of collaborating with other creatives and exploring new possibilities. It’s about embracing the joy that comes from pursuing what I truly love—the enchantment of storytelling.
As an actor and filmmaker, I take immense pride in the success of my short film “One Last Sunrise,” which has won multiple awards at film festivals worldwide. Additionally, “In the Still of the Night,” a short film where I acted and served as the director of photography, directed by Emely de Paiva, received the best thriller award at the Gothamite Monthly Film Awards.
The path to where I stand today has been filled with challenges. Breaking into the entertainment industry and proving myself as an artist from a non-conventional background demanded determination and perseverance. Overcoming limiting beliefs was essential, and collaborating with talented artists and directors who share a common vision has been crucial to my growth and success.
Throughout my journey, I’ve gained valuable insights. True success lies in following one’s artistic dreams and finding fulfillment in storytelling, rather than merely seeking external markers of achievement. It’s about connecting with audiences on a profound level and leaving a lasting impact through meaningful narratives.
I firmly believe that art transcends boundaries and can be a powerful force for change and inspiration. I am dedicated to collaborating with like-minded creatives to create impactful stories that resonate with audiences from all walks of life. As I continue on this path, I am grateful for the film school, the incredible people I’ve met, and the experiences that have shaped me. I am living proof that dreams can come true, even for someone from an ordinary background like mine. And this is a story I want the world to know—that anyone, regardless of their origins, can find happiness and success by following their passion and embracing the journey.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Day 1: We’d start with a classic New York breakfast at Bagels on The Square, enjoying some delicious and authentic bagels. After that, we’d take a leisurely stroll in Central Park, soaking in the beautiful surroundings and taking pictures together. In the evening, we’d head to McSorley’s Old Ale House, my favorite spot, to hang out and share stories over a pint.

Day 2: I’d take them on a memorable visit to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, learning about the city’s immigrant history. For lunch, we’d try some of the best New York-style pizza at a local pizzeria. In the afternoon, we’d immerse ourselves in art at The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met), marveling at the incredible masterpieces.

Day 3: To kick off the day, we’d head to the Edge NYC, getting a unique perspective of the city from the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere. For lunch, we’d explore the diverse food offerings at Chelsea Market, trying out various cuisines. In the afternoon, we’d walk the Brooklyn Bridge, enjoying the breathtaking views of the skyline.

Day 4: We’d take a fun day trip to Coney Island, reliving childhood memories with amusement park rides and savoring some Nathan’s hot dogs. In the evening, we’d have dinner at a trendy restaurant in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, to experience the city’s hip dining scene.

Day 5: A visit to Times Square would be a must, experiencing the vibrant lights and the bustling energy of the city. For lunch, we’d treat ourselves to a rooftop restaurant, enjoying both good food and a fantastic view. In the afternoon, we’d shop in SoHo, exploring stylish boutiques and soaking in the fashionable atmosphere.

Day 6: We’d have a relaxed morning at a cozy café in the Lower East Side, sipping coffee and planning our day. Next, we’d visit the High Line Park, enjoying the greenery and art installations in this elevated linear park. We’d spend the rest of the day exploring the charming streets of Greenwich Village and the West Village, discovering hidden gems and historic sites. For dinner, we’d have a fine-dining experience, savoring gourmet meals and making the evening special.

Day 7: As our trip neared its end, we’d start the day at a relaxed pace with breakfast at a cozy café. Then, we’d visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, paying our respects and honoring the city’s resilience. For our final dinner, we’d choose a restaurant with a view of the city’s skyline, reminiscing about our fantastic week in New York.
Throughout the week, we’d also check out live music at places like Shrine and keep an eye out for any local events or festivals to make our trip even more exciting. New York has so much to offer, and I know my best friend would have an unforgettable time exploring the city with me!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I am filled with immense gratitude for every opportunity and experience that has shaped my journey thus far. I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to my long-time collaborators, Emely de Paiva and Ermete De Boni, whose support and collaboration have been invaluable.

My gratitude extends to my teachers, who have played a significant role in my growth and learning. Their guidance and wisdom have been instrumental in shaping my path.

Above all, I am profoundly grateful to my mentor, C Surya Prakash, who holds a special place in my heart. He was the first person to believe in and support me in my endeavors. Whenever I needed guidance in any matter, he was the pillar of strength I could rely on. Through his teachings and insights, he has imparted invaluable lessons about life, and he continues to be a source of inspiration for me.

I am proud to call him my uncle, and he stands as a role model for me. His guidance and unwavering support have been instrumental in my journey, and I am forever grateful for the impact he has had on my life.

Website: www.rohithguttamidhi.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/rohithguttamidhi/