Delbar Arya: A Rising Star Embracing Authenticity in Cinema

Raised in Germany in a family rich in artistic heritage—her father being a celebrated Iranian actor and her siblings also involved in creative fields—Delbar’s life has always revolved around the arts. “Watching my dad perform was a constant in my life. The arts have always been my reality,” she shares with conviction. “It’s the environment I grew up in.”

Her journey in acting began with seven years of theatre training in Germany, which laid a solid foundation for her craft before she stepped in front of the camera. A pivotal moment came when she participated in the indie film ‘A Boy in Bollywood’ for the Swedish Film Festival in India. “That experience in Mumbai ignited something within me,” she recalls. “I thought, perhaps I should pursue this further.”

In 2016, she relocated to Mumbai, driven by her aspirations in Hindi cinema. However, like many newcomers, she faced challenges, including auditions, rejections, and the complexities of networking. Her breakthrough came with the music video ‘Downtown’ featuring Guru Randhawa. “Having a German passport allowed me to travel to Canada quickly for the shoot,” she remembers. Yet, this opportunity led her down an unexpected path into Punjabi cinema. “I arrived in India with dreams of Bollywood, never anticipating my journey would take me here.”

Despite having no familial ties to Punjab, Delbar immersed herself in the culture. She learned Gurmukhi at a gurdwara and engaged with scripts in their original language. “I ask numerous questions about cultural nuances, how a village girl would behave or speak. I prefer to be well-prepared, even if spontaneity is often the norm on set,” she explains.

Her ability to adapt stems from her theatre background and has been further honed through workshops with industry legends like Manoj Bajpayee, Vidya Balan, and Gaurav Sachdeva, as well as training at Anupam Kher’s acting school. However, she emphasizes that learning from these icons is not about imitation. “Each mentor has a unique approach, but ultimately, it’s about discovering your own voice. Acting is about exploration, not replication.”

What has she learned about herself through this journey? “I realize I listen more than I talk. I take in everything around me. While I may appear cheerful and lively, internally, I’m always absorbing,” she reflects.

In her growing filmography, which includes titles like ‘Pyaar Tu Hove Main Hova’ and ‘Damdaa’, along with upcoming projects such as ‘Madania’ and ‘Jado Da Mobile Aa Gaya’, Delbar has portrayed a range of characters from glamorous NRIs to relatable small-town girls. Her choices are motivated by emotional resonance rather than mere aesthetics.

“I aim for more than just looking good on screen. I seek challenges. I’ve tackled both comedic and deeply nuanced roles, and that’s what truly excites me,” she states.

Her debut in OTT, a web series currently under wraps, introduces a new level of structure to her work. “The pace is quick, and everything is meticulously organized. It teaches you to be precise,” she notes.

Behind her calm demeanor lies a journey filled with obstacles. “People often see the glamour, but they overlook the confusion, the rejections, and the quiet moments,” she shares. “It took me two years in Mumbai just to figure out where auditions were held. Patience and consistency are essential.”

A significant turning point for her was when renowned director Manmohan Singh, known for his collaborations with Yash Raj Films, introduced her to Punjabi cinema. “He told me I reminded him of Sridevi in my expressions and presence. That compliment still resonates with me,” she recalls.

Despite her rising fame, Delbar remains humble. “People often say, ‘You’re an actress, why don’t you act like one off-screen, with some attitude?’ But that’s not who I am,” she asserts.

Her dream role? An action-packed character, something bold and centered around a strong female lead—“a ‘Wonder Woman’ type.” When asked about what she feels is lacking in Punjabi cinema, she hopes for broader creative exploration. “There’s immense talent, rich history, and deep emotion. I wish the industry would delve into more diverse themes beyond just comedy and romance. Progress is being made, albeit slowly.”

Her artistic inspirations are noteworthy: Mani Ratnam for direction, Shah Rukh Khan for his emotional depth, and Tabu for her soulful performances. “Tabu’s eyes convey so much. With her, you forget everything else—costume, makeup—and simply watch her act. That’s the kind of performance I aspire to achieve,” she expresses.

After eight years in the industry, Delbar Arya is not in a hurry to prove herself. She is committed to her craft, playing the long game, and above all, staying true to herself.

“You must keep your faith alive,” she advises. “This journey isn’t about the hype; it’s about remaining curious, honest, and continuing forward.”