Growing up in a world devoid of onscreen representation often leads individuals to adopt the personas of the few characters they do encounter, all in an attempt to belong. That's why stressing the significance of South Asian representation in the creative arts is paramount, as it not only enhances cultural diversity but also nurtures inclusivity and empowers marginalised voices.
In recent times, there has been a promising shift in the landscape. Films crafted, produced, directed, and spearheaded by members of the South Asian diaspora and subcontinent are gaining substantial recognition among global audiences, breaking free from traditional stereotypes and offering a more diverse casting spectrum.
In this evolving industry, Priyanka Patel, who has dedicated years to her craft, provides insight into the industry's transformation and the remarkable diversity that is now taking centre stage.
Can you share some insights into your journey as an actor, including your early influences and what drew you to this profession?
I don't really remember a specific point where I 'decided' I wanted to act. Family members noticed my enjoyment for acting before I did and I was glued to the TV growing up. I watched a lot of children's cartoons because these characters lived in these make-believe worlds, with 'perfect' friendship groups and lived extravagant lives - it was a form of escapism I think. As I got older and I would see a teeny tiny glimmer of someone who looked like me on screen, which were far and few in between. With projects like Bend It like Beckham and East is East, I was so much more intrigued, which I later realised was an itch to get involved. They were families and characters I really understood and I wanted a ticket into these worlds.
Representation of the South Asian diaspora in film and television has evolved over the years. How have you seen the industry change in terms of roles and opportunities for South Asian actors?
It's a really exciting time in the industry at the moment in terms of representation on screen but it's taken us a long time to get here - and we have a long way to go! I remember auditioning when I was a lot younger and the roles felt very stereotypical and 2D - and there was a huge difference in the quantity of auditions I had compared to my white counterparts. These problems still exist but luckily we've had some great South Asian talent ((Riz Ahmed, Archie Panjabi, Bally Gill, Parminder Naga) sweep our screens over the years and have helped bridge some of those gaps. We're seeing more South Asian stories being told through some well-thought-out characters. I hope more of us can be included in every aspect of this industry, both in front and behind the camera, to continue to equalise the playing field.
Can you tell us about your experience working on Malpractice and the significance of the role you portrayed?
Malpractice was just the best. I was extremely lucky to be brought on board considering how many huge names were attached to it, all thanks to Phil for taking a chance on me. The whole experience was a masterclass watching my idols in action. It was inspiring to me to keep getting better. It was intense at points too. The subject matter was heavy and came at a really important time, politically. Our NHS nurses and doctors were/are struggling and were striking a lot. Playing Ramya, a junior doctor, became all the more important. She gets really shaken up early on in her career and we see her try to handle that on top of the everyday struggles of working in an overworked hospital.
What challenges, if any, have you faced as a British Indian actor in the industry, and how have you overcome them?
When a role comes through that doesn't feel well rounded, it can be a challenge to fight that. I've grown up being so appreciative to audition in the first place, because opportunities can be so sparse, that it's hard to question if I'm there just to tick a diversity box and if it's the right role for me at all. As I've progressed in the industry, I've learned a lot more about the content I want to be involved in and that makes it easier to question scripts when they come through. I have a really great agent who is always open to have these conversations with me and help me fight my corner.
What does the future of representation in the entertainment industry look like to you, and what steps can be taken to ensure continued progress?
I think everyone plays a role in continuing progress in the industry, especially if you're lucky enough to have your voice heard. I hope the future for the representation means more South Asian presence in every sector of the industry, I would love to get involved in some screenwriting myself. As actors, it's important to push back on projects/roles you don't agree with so that the shift starts to happen further back in the chain. But we're in an exciting place right now and I hope to collaborate with more creatives who look like me - and don't! - so these conversations continue and we can make more well-rounded work.
