In an exclusive shoot with HT City in the run up to the 78th Independence Day, actor-dancer Shantanu Maheshwari is “excited” to pose with the Indian flag. “ Ek alag hi feeling hain jhanda haath mein pakad kar , it is unmatched,” he tells us. Maheshwari has often represented the country abroad – a journey that began when he, along with his dance crew Desi Hoppers won the World of Dance Championships in Los Angeles (US) in 2015.
Recently, the actor got the opportunity to unveil his upcoming international film, Love in Vietnam at the 77th Cannes Film Festival. "It feels great to represent my own country globally. It has opened my mind to so many avenues.
It feels great to put your culture out there; putting my country in a place of pride has been memorable and very special,” he says. Also Read: Filmmakers often shy away from taking chances on fresh talent, says actor Shantanu Maheshwari How does he plan to celebrate I-Day this year? “I am working on Independence Day, as I have a shoot to prep for. But, there's a flag hoisting that happens in my building every year, which I will definitely take part in," Maheshwari reveals, adding, "I’m not a fan of flying kites but I’m planning to watch the Independence Day parade with my family.
” As someone who has represented the country on different platforms globally, what does independence mean to him, we ask? "For me, it is the freedom to think for yourself and express yourself. The kind of freedom we have in India does.