I want to help people from small town in building their careers on TV: Casting Director Jatin Chaubey

At a young age of 23, Jatin Chaubey is making it large in the world of casting.

Starting his career as an assistant production manager, he is today handling the casting of Edgestorm Production.

With hopes in his eyes and confidence in his heart, Jatin states that he will win the world...

Here we get into a candid chat with him. Read on...

Tell us more about your journey in the industry?

I was born and brought up in Varanasi. Back in 2012 after I completed my graduation I decided to move to Mumbai and start my career as a director in the industry. It was really difficult to even meet people and thus I started working in a call centre. But luck took a turn when I managed to get entry in Beyond Dreams as a production assistant manager. After working there for almost six months, I moved to Swastik Productions and then Fireworks Productions. This was the time I started getting interested in casting and so joined the team as the assistant casting director. Life moved a full circle when I found myself back in Beyond Dreams as an associate casting director. I worked with the team for the shows Million Dollar Girl and Nagarjuna. Post that, I moved to Edgestorm Productions and have been working independently with them for quite some time now.

What are the challenges that you faced in your career span?

There have been lots of challenges. Being a non-industry guy it was really difficult to get through the production houses. I did not even understand who was genuine. Thankfully once you are part of this big TV family, it is all a happy journey.

As a casting director how do you want to benefit the industry?

I want to make people understand that TV is all about talent. Nobody checks where you come from, what is your family background. If you can offer a great job in front of the camera, you are perfect. Also through my experience I want to make people from small town to gain their confidence in their dreams of building a career in the showbiz.

Looks or talent- what is the real priority?

If someone is on TV they should definitely have an appealing personality. But most importantly they should fit the character.

With channel taking the last decision, does it affect you?

Yes, it is disheartening but then as a casting director it is your duty to explain the channel that a particular actor is fit for the role.

What is the income format for casting directors?

When you are working as an in-house casting director, you get a monthly salary. If not it is usually on a pre-decided basis.

You stated you want to become a director, what’s going in that perspective?

I think there is a lot of time for that. I am slowly and steadily moving my career and don’t want to rush into anything.

Who has stood by you in your career? Any names that you can count?

Aditya Surana who heads casting in Fireworks is like an elder brother to me. He is a great man and helped build myself as a better professional.

So what are your plans ahead?

We are launching a new show on &TV, so work is going in that front. We will be pitching for more shows; hopefully we will have an array of shows lined up soon.

Good luck Jatin!