Manish Poonam - I Chose Not to Let the Environment Intimidate Me (Actor & Dancer)

"I never came to Mumbai to become an actor—it just happened. But now, I can't imagine my life without it."

1. From dance to modeling to acting—how has your artistic journey evolved?

Dance was my first love, but financial struggles forced me to pause. Still, I kept learning by teaching kids. Moving to Mumbai was tough—I had no connections, no stability. I started with background dancing and teaching, but Waacking changed everything. It became my medium of self-expression, leading me to fashion.

Acting, however, was unexpected. Theater introduced me to performance, but facing the camera was another challenge—I felt like I didn’t belong. Over time, the lens and I found harmony. Now, dance, fashion, and acting all flow together in my journey, shaping me in ways I never planned.

2. What drew you to Waacking, and how has it shaped your performances?

Waacking—especially punking—is more than just movement; it’s about embracing your true self. Rooted in queer culture, it carries deep emotional meaning, allowing freedom of expression without judgment. It taught me to balance realism and performance, influencing not just my dance but my entire artistic identity.

3. How do you use fashion beyond aesthetics?

Fashion is my canvas. It’s not just about looking good—it’s about reflecting who I am in the moment. Some days, I channel a song, a personality, or a mood. Fashion lets me wear my confidence, push boundaries, and challenge perceptions.

4. What excites you about acting, and what challenges have you faced?

Acting is about creating a space where I can truly be myself within a character. Initially, I felt insecure—was I good enough? But I realized the challenge wasn’t acting; it was overcoming my own doubts. Once I made my character my home, acting stopped feeling like work.

There’s a magic in surrendering to a role—when the camera rolls, everything else fades. It’s not about performing; it’s about being.

5. You play Moksh in Campus Beats. How has that experience shaped you?

This was my first major acting project—I had no formal training, just my instincts and my dance background. Waacking, with its theatrical essence, helped me naturally express emotions.

Auditioning was a whirlwind—I cleared multiple rounds, including script readings, a mock shoot, and a look test. Yet, even after landing the role, I was nervous. But on set, I chose not to let the environment intimidate me. Instead, I created my own space and became Moksh.

Seeing the audience connect with Moksh, calling me by that name—it’s surreal. It made me realize I want to explore acting further. This journey wasn’t planned, but now, I’m all in.

6. Your name carries your mother’s legacy. How has she shaped your journey?

Carrying my mother’s name isn’t just a tribute—it’s a symbol of resilience, strength, and sacrifice.

Growing up, financial struggles were a constant. My mother was the backbone of our family, working tirelessly—sometimes earning as little as ₹20–₹30 a day, walking miles because we couldn’t afford an auto, and still returning home empty-handed. But she never gave up.

For years, she endured a toxic environment due to societal and family pressures, but when we truly understood her struggles, we stood by her as she broke free. Today, she runs her own beauty parlor, stands tall on her own terms, and inspires me every day.

Her journey instilled in me an unshakable belief in hard work—even when things seem impossible. She is my strength, my guiding force, and the reason I fight for my dreams.

That’s why I am Manish Poonam. My name isn’t just an identity—it’s my power.

7. Do you think versatility is essential for artists today?

It depends on the artist. Some dedicate themselves to mastering one craft, which is beautiful. But for me, versatility is essential. I see art as fluid—each form enhances the other.

That’s why I didn’t just dabble in Waacking for a year and then jump to acting. I spent years in dance, and even now, I stay rooted in it while exploring other forms. True artistry lies in depth, not just variety.

8. If your life were a dance performance, what emotions would define it?

Gratitude. My journey—its struggles, its triumphs—is deeply personal. My dance would be a reflection of every emotion I’ve lived—raw, theatrical, and honest. I don’t mask my feelings; I let them flow. And that’s exactly how I’d dance.

Bio:

Originally from Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan, Manish Poonam is a dancer, model, and actor who carries his mother’s name as a symbol of strength. Specializing in Waacking, he has seamlessly transitioned into fashion and acting, making his mark in the industry. His role in Campus Beats has garnered immense love, and his artistic journey continues to evolve.

Instagram 

Interviewed by: Shantanu Singh 

Edited by: Shantanu Singh