Diya Patel on Performing and Her New Project, Waack Girls
Galore sat down with rising star Diya Patel to discuss her journey from a creative childhood to her current success in the entertainment industry. Here’s what she had to say about her passion for acting, overcoming challenges, and her latest project.
Diya, what inspired you to become an actress?
Growing up in a creative household, I was exposed to all forms of art from a young age. But what really captured my imagination was storytelling. I can clearly recall how moved and deeply touched I was watching classics like Titanic and The Sound of Music. This is what inspired me to be an actress and create art that had this kind of impact on people.
How did your early life experiences shape your career path?
My experiences throughout my early life were quite diverse. I went to school in India, then Singapore, and finally attended college in America, where I majored in theatre at Swarthmore. These varied experiences helped shape my future and gave me a unique perspective that I bring to my work.
The entertainment industry can be tough. How do you deal with rejection?
Most people are curious about how I deal with rejection, hearing the word “no” all the time. The truth is, this pushes you to work harder than everyone around you and hustle because this isn’t an easy business. I’ve trained my mind to use rejection as fuel to propel myself against any obstacles set against me. This resilience has been crucial in shaping my path throughout the industry.
Can you tell us about some of your past theatrical work?
Some of my past theatrical work includes starring in overseas productions of Nell Gwynn and Wounds to the Face. These experiences were invaluable in honing my craft and preparing me for screen work.
Let’s talk about your current project, Waack Girls. What can you tell us about it?
Waack Girls is an Amazon Prime original series that premiered on November 22nd. The story follows a group of girls in Kolkata, India, who form a dance group. It highlights their adventures as they battle themselves and the world around them. They find unity in waacking, a form of dancing that originated in Los Angeles in the 1970s at LGBTQ+ clubs.
The show features a unique dance style. Can you elaborate on what waacking is?
Waacking is a street dance style that originated in the gay clubs of Los Angeles in the ’70s. It’s a highly expressive dance form characterized by fast-paced arm movements and posing. It stems from punking, a dance created during the disco era. What’s fascinating is how this dance style traveled across the world and found resonance with these girls in Kolkata.
How has the show been received so far?
It seems like people are really inspired by it! It’s been incredibly rewarding to be part of a project that’s touching people’s hearts.
What’s next for Diya Patel? Any future projects or aspirations?
While I continue to see myself acting and modeling, I’ve recently started writing screenplays. I’m working on directing a partially autobiographical piece sometime in the future. As for my dreams, I would love to act alongside some of my idols, including Viola Davis, Sandra Bullock, and Meryl Streep. The thought of sharing the screen with these incredible actresses is both exciting and motivating.
Finally, what message would you like to share with aspiring actors and artists?
I’d say embrace your unique experiences and use them to fuel your art. Don’t let rejection discourage you; instead, let it push you to work harder. And most importantly, never lose sight of why you started—that passion for storytelling and creating art that moves people. That’s what keeps me going, and I believe it can do the same for others.
Waack Girls is available to stream on Amazon Prime in over 240 countries.
