“Jungle Jungle pata chala hai...” Arin Johri is the voice-over artist in the new Netflix release Mowgli. Arin is a shy looking boy from Canons High School who was right from his childhood was always interested in acting and involved in school plays and drama. But how did he manage to snag a small but significant voice in Mowgli where he mimes the growls of Wolves, Monkeys and Mowgli's other friends?
“They were looking for someone who was fluent in Hindi and at the same time sounded Indian?” Arin said, explaining how he was able to secure the role because of his “Hindi speaking ability.” His everyday car journey to school and back home means listening to Bollywood music over the radio and his proficiency in Hindi comes from the atmosphere back at Home.
“It is important for kids to know their own native language and this way it opens up diverse avenues for them and gives them an advantage over the rest.” said Arin's father who ensures that all conversation back home is in Hindi.
Arin was at Goldbeaters Primary School and the school encouraged him to be a part of a casting agency ID Kids Talent after the agent heard him audition at one of the plays. Interestingly enough the school was kind enough to pay for his Casting agency fees based on his talent. Ever since Arin's career has traversed through the drama and film industry both behind and in front of the camera. From being a voice-over artist for one of BBC's 'Good Kerma Hospital' episodes to portraying the child who lost his mother in a fatal accident in 'O Maa', Arin loves experimenting and exploring his talent.
“I prefer being in front of the camera because I just have to be me and I am not worried because I know that I will have the production staff assisting me! And it is fun experimenting in front of the camera!”
But how difficult is it for the 13 year old boy to find that balance between managing his studies and pursuing his passion for movies and drama. And more importantly, what role does the family play in supporting the kid in establishing an acting career in future?
“My dad has always encouraged me to follow my passion and dreams. But at the same time he ensures that I don't take my studies for granted as it is also for very important for survival.”
The young chap who plays guitar is optimistic of his future prospects but until then he revels in the success of Mowgli.
