Varun Saranga’s journey into the world of acting is one of resilience, passion, and groundbreaking achievements. Born and raised in Canada with Tamil roots, Saranga has not only thrived as a versatile actor but also made waves as a filmmaker, marking his place in a competitive industry. From his early career as a child actor to becoming a household name in hit TV series, Saranga’s story is one of perseverance and the power of believing in your dreams.
Varun Saranga: From Child Actor to Acclaimed Star
Varun Saranga began his acting career in the teen sitcom How to Be Indie, a show that resonated with many first-generation immigrant families in Canada. It followed the life of an Indian-Canadian girl navigating the complexities of identity, culture, and adolescence. For Saranga, landing the role of A.J., Indie’s older brother, was a turning point. Although he was 18 at the time, his youthful appearance fit perfectly for the role, making him a series regular.
The significance of How to Be Indie went beyond entertainment—it represented the first time a mainstream Canadian television show truly focused on the immigrant experience from a South Asian perspective. For young Tamil-Canadians like Saranga, this was a major leap in terms of representation. His breakout role allowed him to challenge stereotypes and showcase a new narrative, one that reflected the diversity of Canada’s modern identity.
Defying Expectations and Earning Support
Saranga’s foray into acting wasn’t without its challenges. Coming from a traditional Tamil family with roots in Chennai, the expectation was that he would follow a more conventional career path. His parents, like many immigrant parents, emphasized stability and financial security, particularly in STEM fields. However, Saranga was determined to follow his passion for acting.
Over time, his family’s initial skepticism turned into unwavering support. As they saw the consistency in his work and the doors opening for him in the entertainment industry, they became his biggest supporters. Varun Saranga’s story exemplifies the importance of perseverance in the face of uncertainty. His journey reflects how following one’s passion can eventually shift perceptions and win the support of even the most traditional-minded individuals.
Achieving Success in Orphan Black and Wynonna Earp
Varun Saranga’s career gained even more traction with roles in critically acclaimed series like Orphan Black and Wynonna Earp. These shows provided him with opportunities to further hone his skills and gain recognition as a dynamic actor. His portrayal of Jeremy Chetri in Wynonna Earp was particularly notable, as he brought depth and nuance to the character. Playing a quirky, brilliant scientist with LGBTQ+ representation, Saranga quickly became a fan favorite.
The role wasn’t just a personal achievement—it broke barriers in terms of inclusivity on television. Varun Saranga’s performance resonated with fans worldwide, who appreciated the positive representation of diversity both in terms of ethnic background and sexual orientation. Through his role, he proved that meaningful representation can be powerful, and that audiences are eager for complex, multifaceted characters.
Overcoming Industry Challenges
Despite his success, Varun Saranga hasn’t been immune to the challenges of the entertainment industry. He has openly shared his struggles with the unpredictable nature of acting, particularly during periods of inactivity where work opportunities can be scarce. “The film business can be very hot and cold,” he admits, “so dealing with that is always tough. You just have to persevere through those times and really believe in what you are doing.”
For many young actors, navigating the ups and downs of the industry can be daunting. Saranga’s experience serves as a reminder that persistence is key. Varun Saranga encourages aspiring actors to stay the course, even when faced with rejection. According to him, audition setbacks are inevitable but should be used as fuel for growth rather than deterrence.
Pursuing Filmmaking and Creative Control
Varun Saranga’s ambition doesn’t stop at acting. He has expanded his horizons by stepping into the role of a filmmaker, directing a number of short films. His involvement in the Canadian Film Centre’s (CFC) Acting Conservatory program was instrumental in developing his creative abilities and understanding the art of storytelling from a director’s perspective.
Creating his own work allows Saranga to maintain control over his projects, rather than waiting for opportunities to come his way. “The fun thing about creating your own work is the fact that you aren’t sitting around hoping for someone to give you a job,” he shares. By embracing filmmaking, Saranga has taken charge of his career, proving that actors can be versatile artists who shape their narratives.
Influences and Inspirations
Throughout his career, Saranga has drawn inspiration from trailblazing South Asian artists like Aziz Ansari and Kumail Nanjiani. Their success in breaking barriers in Hollywood has been a source of motivation for him. Ansari’s Master of None and Nanjiani’s The Big Sick were monumental achievements that helped open doors for South Asian talent in mainstream entertainment. Saranga acknowledges their work as pivotal in paving the way for actors like himself to thrive in the industry.
Advice for Aspiring Actors
For young Tamil-Canadians—or anyone with dreams of making it in the entertainment industry—Saranga’s advice is both practical and motivational. “Go out and live your life,” he says. “A lot of what actors draw from is their own life experiences.” He also emphasizes the importance of training, recommending that aspiring actors attend acting classes regularly to sharpen their skills and explore different roles.
Also Read:Emanuel Sandhu: The Skater Who Blended Artistry with Athleticism