ALDONA: Sameer Gadekar, a resident of Naikavaddo in Carona, Aldona, has established himself as a prominent actor, director, and an exceptional Ghumot Aarti performer. While most directors work with a troupe of carefully chosen actors, Sameer often puts together a cast of enthusiastic residents of the village or town he is performing at, irrespective of their lack of stage experience.
“It may seem like an uphill task to train fresh, inexperienced actors, but I enjoy the process- what is art if it cannot be shared? Those keen on performing for their village or community often put on the best performances,” says Sameer with a wide smile.
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Gifted with innate talent, Sameer has honed his skills from an early age without any formal training. His journey began with a childhood performance at an Aldona temple during his days in 5th grade. From that moment, Sameer’s admiration for talented actors and his father’s unwavering support fuelled his ambition to become who he is today.
Having delved into the world of acting and Ghumot Aarti, Sameer’s greatest joy lies in fostering natural talent without the need for prompts or cues. “I want to eradicate the concept of prompting behind the curtain, to infuse authenticity and spontaneity in every performance,” he says. Throughout his 28-year career, he has had the privilege of acting, directing, and training various groups across the state, forming lasting bonds with his fellow artists.
Recognizing the immense potential within female actors, he aims to offer them opportunities for growth through guidance and friendship. By building trust and rapport, Sameer helps these women tap into their talents, resulting in outstanding drama performances that have garnered widespread acclaim.
Goa’s vibrant festival scene provides ample occasions for artistic expression, encompassing Aartis, bhajans, and dramas. Through his guidance, Sameer has cultivated a staggering 21 drama groups, enabling women to find confidence and recognition within their communities.
In Sameer’s eyes, acting is not limited to the stage alone; it permeates our daily lives. Each conversation becomes a form of performance, but it is the onstage rendition that brings out the true essence of drama. Having taken on diverse roles such as police officers, brothers, and comedic characters, Sameer’s acting prowess shines through in every portrayal. It was a Tiatrist from Aldona who initially granted him a chance to act in a drama, catapulting his career to new heights.
While talent exists abundantly, many aspiring actors lack the necessary infrastructure and opportunities to thrive. Parental objections, concerns about late-night performances, and societal constraints can hinder the pursuit of one’s passion. Sameer emphasizes that trust from parents plays a crucial role in nurturing a child’s potential.
Beyond his stage commitments, Sameer also serves as a judge for various programmes. He advocates for fair and impartial judging, free from interference by organizers, to ensure justice is served to participating groups. He understands the importance of providing constructive feedback while acknowledging the human aspect of judgment.
As a mentor to aspiring talent, Sameer advises the younger generation to resist the distractions of mobile devices and prioritize their artistic gifts. He also addresses the concerning rise in alcohol and drug abuse among youths and calls on them to focus their energies on constructive activities.
Acknowledging the pivotal role his parents played in his career, Sameer calls his father, Shabi Shantaram Gadekar, his guiding light and constant source of inspiration and strength.Parental encouragement, he believes, is crucial for any talented individual seeking to flourish in life.
