Did Deepak Tijori Face Unrecognized Struggles in the 90s?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Deepak Tijori faced emotional challenges during his career.
- He values audience appreciation over awards.
- His first Best Actor nomination came after 35 years.
- He learned to remain hopeful despite missed recognition.
- Deepak recently received acclaim for his role in 'Echoes of Us.'
Mumbai, July 11 (NationPress) Deepak Tijori, renowned for his unforgettable performances in classic 90s movies such as “Aashiqui,” “Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar,” and “Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa,” has candidly discussed the emotional challenges he endured during the height of his acting career.
The actor, who recently received his first Best Actor nomination after 35 years, expressed his eagerness for award nominations upon the release of his films.
He shared with IANS, “During the 90s, I eagerly anticipated nominations. I often searched for my name, but it never appeared.” For many years, Deepak would scan nomination lists with hope, only to face disappointment. “I looked for 4-5 years, and then I just stopped,” he admitted.
Regarding his recent nomination in the United States, Tijori stated, “The excitement is overwhelming. It’s a bit surprising too. I remember working on the film Lightning and eagerly waiting for nominations post-release. I checked the lists but found nothing. After a few years, I gave up, thinking others had better content. When I finally received the call about my nomination, I was taken aback. I even told Jo, who called me, ‘Don’t talk to me right now.’ It felt surreal.”
When questioned about whether his talent was recognized by the industry over the years, the ‘Baadshah’ actor remarked that he never gauged his journey through awards or formal accolades. The admiration from audiences—particularly for his 90s work—has always been his most significant reward.
“I’ve never viewed it that way. The love I’ve received from audiences, especially for my work in the 90s, has always sufficed. Even today, people fondly remember and appreciate that work. That’s my genuine reward. Although this new recognition is special, especially as I’m returning to work, I never expected it. I’m grateful. Recognition is a wonderful feeling. Still, I never held grudges. Each time I wasn’t acknowledged, I reassured myself, ‘Something better is coming next year.’ That hope propelled me forward.”
Deepak Tijori has recently garnered acclaim at the Independent Short Awards in Los Angeles, California, for his role in “Echoes of Us,” an emotional short film directed by Joe Rajan.