Veer Pahariya, the rising star of the film Sky Force, recently opened up about his journey in the industry, emphasizing the tremendous support he received from the legendary Akshay Kumar. In an engaging interview, Pahariya discussed how he navigated his debut while receiving a fair share of criticism from certain audiences. However, he believes that the overwhelming love for the film outweighs the negativity.
When asked how external judgments affected him, Pahariya stated, “Not at all, Sir. I think to be in a film like this, which pays homage to a real hero of the 1965 war, was an honour and a privilege. People who have watched the film have given so much love, so there is only joy.” His excitement reflects not only his dedication to the film but also his gratitude towards the project and the individuals involved.
Pahariya’s background reveals a complex personal history, having been born in Mumbai. He shared that he spent part of his early years in the city before his parents’ unforeseen separation cast a shadow over his childhood. “Everything was so widely covered in the media, and the divorce affidavit was public,” he mentioned, highlighting how this experience instilled a desire to escape and find his own voice through films.
As a child with few friends, the characters he watched in movies became his best companions, leading him to pursue an artistic path. He immersed himself in musical instruments, honing his skills in directing short films and performing with Shiamak Davar’s dance group, thanks to his mother’s encouragement. His journey evolved from there, driven by the desire to act, and after some time away at boarding school, he began to focus intensely on his dream.
After finishing high school, Pahariya’s dream began to take shape when he landed his first job on the film Alone in 2014, where he worked as an intern assistant director. Over the years, he diversified his experience with numerous opportunities across advertising, sound engineering, and even lending his voice for various ad jingles. He recalls how creating a YouTube channel allowed him to connect with an audience interested in his music, further solidifying his resolve to stay the course in the film industry.
Pahariya explained how his experience studying in the UK contributed to both his education and his passion for performance. He acquired a dual degree in finance and management, while simultaneously taking a minor in dramatics. Upon returning to India, he continued his ascent by working as an assistant director on notable films and exploring other facets of performance, such as live hosting for a gaming app.
It wasn’t until 2019 that his acting pursuits gained momentum. Pahariya experienced a series of auditions leading to promising projects, yet many contracts slipped through his fingers due to various reasons, including funding issues. Fortunately, his perseverance paid off when he joined Maddock Films during the pandemic and began to write music that showcased his talents. Eventually, he got his breakthrough in Sky Force.
Reflecting on the experience of working in Sky Force, Pahariya described the profound impact it had on him. He meticulously prepared for his role as Squadron Leader T. Krishna Vijaya by studying every possible resource about the 1965 air war and even visited multiple air force bases, including those in Pathankot, Gwalior, Lohegaon, and Suratgarh. “I made some really good friends with squadron leaders my age who give their lives for the country every single day,” he shared, illustrating his dedication to authenticity in his performance.
Pahariya’s preparation was multifaceted, combining acting training, immersive experiences at air force bases, and rigorous physical training. He expressed the challenges he faced, noting the importance of fitness, as fighter pilots require a lean physique to maneuver in tight cockpits. He not only shed excess weight but maintained an eight-pack throughout filming. “I had the good fortune of flying in a real fighter jet to understand what it feels like to take the forces,” he said, demonstrating the lengths he went to in order to draw upon the experience for his role.
Working with Akshay Kumar was another highlight for Pahariya. The seasoned actor’s kindness and professionalism alleviated many of the young actor’s initial fears. “Akshay sir is a gem of a person. I was very intimidated and petrified before we started shooting, but he was the nicest, warmest, and most welcoming person ever,” Pahariya expressed. He found that Kumar not only set the mood on set but also became a mentor, guiding him through rehearsals and performance techniques—essentially providing him with a crash course in acting.
Pahariya’s humility is evident as he reflects on the challenges he faced. When discussing his social media backlash, he drew attention to the hard work and dedication behind his success. “I’ve worked very hard to be here; I’ve had a 10-and-a-half-year journey behind the camera, and people don’t really know who I am,” he stated, accentuating the long road he traveled to finally appear on screens. Despite the trolls, he recognized the silver lining of his newfound visibility. “Now I guess I don’t need to introduce myself anymore,” he concluded, demonstrating his resilience and positive outlook.
Reflectingly, Pahariya is grateful for the direction provided by Akshay Kumar and the support system that shaped his debut in Sky Force. The experience has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on him—both personally and professionally. As he continues navigating his career, Pahariya’s enthusiasm for his craft and the values he learned from his experiences are likely to resonate in future projects.
As audiences eagerly await more from Pahariya, it’s clear that his journey has only just begun. The young actor embodies a blend of talent and determination, paving the way for his future endeavors as he continues to draw inspiration from his journey in Sky Force and the guiding influence of Akshay Kumar, a true force in the industry.
