From Kenya to Bollywood: Margaret Kariuki’s Unforgettable Journey to the Silver Screen

Kenyan actress Margaret Kariuki recently made her mark in the glitzy world of Bollywood. Having captured the hearts of millions of fans across the globe with the newly released Indian series “Happy Family Conditions Apply”, which recently debuted on Amazon Prime Video, Margaret’s journey from the rolling hills of Kenya to the silver screen of India is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

With her raw talent, unbridled passion, and sheer determination, she has become a force to be reckoned with in the world of entertainment. We got to catch up with her as she reminisced her rise to fame, experiences as a Kenyan actress in the Indian film industry, and her plans for the future.

What inspired you to pursue a career in acting, and how did you get started in the industry?

Growing up, I always enjoyed watching TV shows and was fascinated by storytelling and I knew that I wanted to be on the big screen someday. I am an entertainer and a very vocal person. I got my first acting gig in 2020 in a TVC. Since then I’ve gained more courage on camera and have landed a few more roles after that. I really enjoy what I do.

As a Kenyan actress, how did you prepare for your Bollywood debut, and what were some of the challenges you faced during the filming process?

The whole process from auditioning and interviews with the directors to travelling to Mumbai for 3 months to film was a wild ride. Everything happened so fast and I learnt everything on the go. I had some issues with my visa and this made me miss the actors workshop and script reading. My script was in Hindi so I took lessons online and later physical classes when I got there.

My first day on set was the Garba dancing scene and this was the hardest night. I had just had one day of practice and all the expectation weighed on me. Culture shock and language barrier were the top challenges but thankfully I had the best team that made everything so easy and seamless.

What was it like working with some of Bollywood’s biggest stars, and how did you handle any language or cultural barriers that may have arisen on set?

I looked at it as more of a privilege than anything. At first it was nerve wrecking and there were times I had doubts if I would match the talent of these stars. They, however, made me so comfortable and welcome.

There was a reason I was selected and I was deserving of being there. This made me challenge myself more and better my performance. I’m curious and inquisitive in nature and I blended easily and brought the Kenyan sass onboard as well.

Can you tell us about some of your favourite moments from your time on set, and any funny or memorable stories that you have from your experience being on set?

There’s so many I don’t know where to start. Every bit of the shoot was an experience of its own.

Shooting episode 2 with my husband Suresh was definitely a thrill. It involved getting intimate and we had to act drunk and semi undress as we jumped into the pool. The issue was the pool. You know black people with water — I for sure drank a few gulps of pool water. The show is a familycom so the whole script was pretty funny.

Dressing in traditional Indian attire was so exciting. Dancing Garba in Mumbai humidity was something else. The food! Did I mention the delicious Gujarat food?Just being on set with everyone was something to look forward to.

Do you think your background as a Kenyan actress influenced your approach to the role?

One thing you need as a Kenyan actor is perseverance. The ratio between acting opportunities and talent is bewildering. There’s so much competition and every role you get is a gem. This was a lifetime opportunity and I had to represent Kenya at my best. But with the Kenyan spirit, we can thrive anywhere!

What advice would you give to other actors and actresses who are looking to break into the industry in general, and how can they best prepare themselves for the unique challenges of working in such a diverse and competitive environment?

Show up and keep knocking on that door. Attend those auditions no matter how many rejections you get. Do not disqualify yourself or get intimated by the big shot actors. Instead, let them inspire you.

Make friends at auditions and always ask for feedback from casting directors on how to better your performance. Take every role you get (even extras) very seriously and be open to learn (you realize you almost don’t know nothing). Lastly, don’t give up and as you wait, prepare.

What projects are you currently working on, and what can fans expect to see from you in the future?

Currently working on a series called ‘The Maggy Vibe Experience’ that features local creatives and young entrepreneurs. Check it out on my YouTube channel ‘Maggy Vibe’. Fans can see catch me on Uriru wa Wendo.

And a few more exciting projects coming up – let me not spoil the surprise. but it only gets better from here.

How has your experience in Bollywood changed your perspective on the entertainment industry, and what lessons have you learned that you think will be valuable in your future work?

One thing I learnt for sure is that preparation is key. Breaking and succeeding in the industry requires stubborn determination. Being exposed to such a big production really opened my perspective on how we have so much to learn and explore. As an actor you gotta adapt easily. Rigidity is not an option. Kenyans have so much talent that should be put out there for the world to see.

What other actors or actresses have been the biggest influences on your career, and what have you learned from them?

Viola Davis is on top of my list. Her versatility and seamless performance is so admirable. The iconic Maryline Monroe, Jennifer Lawrence, Nancy Isiime, Thando Thabete, Minne Kariuki and our home queen Nini Wacera are all so admirable and inspirational.

Lastly, what message would you like to share with your fans and supporters around the world, and what are some of your goals and aspirations for the future?

A big shout out to all my supporters for all the love. I hope you enjoy Kwamboka’s performance on “Happy Family” and looking forward to making more appearances on your screens.

I’m so honored to represent Kenya on the international stage. Eager to work with more local and international productions as I push my boundaries and break barriers. May my story inspire any aspiring and upcoming artists to keep pushing. We are soon bringing the Academy awards home!

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