Meet Venkat Sai Gunda | Actor/Filmmaker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Venkat Sai Gunda and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi VENKAT SAI, why did you pursue a creative career?
From my childhood, I have been deeply passionate about films and storytelling. I have always seen life as a series of cinematic moments, which inspired me to dream of creating my own stories on screen. This passion led me to pursue filmmaking, where I could channel my creative energy into storytelling that connects with audiences and brings meaningful narratives to life.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is rooted in storytelling—whether it’s through filmmaking, photography, or creating something with an emotional depth. I’ve always believed in telling stories that not only entertain but also provoke thought and bring awareness to important societal issues. As an artist, what sets me apart is my commitment to blending raw human emotions with experimental narratives, as seen in my debut feature film, The Deserving. It’s not just a psychological horror thriller; it’s a layered story about guilt, redemption, and trauma, with a strong societal subtext. I am particularly proud of the fact that this film, despite being my first, has been recognized internationally with numerous awards and positive reception.

My journey to where I am today has been far from easy. Coming from a middle-class family in India with no film background, transitioning to the U.S., and diving headfirst into filmmaking was a daunting challenge. I had to learn everything from scratch, often wearing multiple hats—from producing and acting to managing locations and casting. Balancing my passion for storytelling with financial and logistical constraints was incredibly tough, especially since I funded my film through personal savings and the support of friends. However, it’s these challenges that taught me resilience, resourcefulness, and the power of collaboration.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned along the way is to embrace failure and use it as a stepping stone. There were countless moments when things didn’t go as planned, but I never gave up on my vision. I also realized the importance of having a strong support system—be it my family, friends, or collaborators—who believed in me even when I doubted myself.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that my work is fueled by passion and authenticity. I want to create art that resonates with people on a deep level, transcending cultural and geographical boundaries. My journey is proof that with dedication and determination, even someone with no formal background or resources can break into the industry and make an impact. I hope to inspire aspiring filmmakers and artists to dream big, work hard, and never stop believing in their stories. Above all, I want the world to see that art has the power to connect, heal, and transform lives. That’s the essence of my brand and my story.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’ve always been a huge NYC lover. Growing up in India, I was captivated by the NYC skyline and cityscapes shown in movies, and that fascination led me to move to the US. The day I landed in NYC was a dream come true, and now I live close to the city, so I can always stay connected to the place that inspires me the most.

If my best friend were visiting, I’d definitely dedicate most of the week to exploring NYC. I’d take them to some of my favorite spots, starting with hidden speakeasies that are rare to find but offer the best vibes and rooftop bars with stunning views. Central Park, one of my absolute favorite places, would be on the itinerary for a relaxing walk or a quick escape from the bustling city. I’d also take them to Pebble Beach in Brooklyn, which sits perfectly between the Manhattan and Brooklyn bridges—it’s one of my go-to spots and feels magical every time I visit.

NYC has so many incredible places to explore, and honestly, a single page wouldn’t be enough to list them all. But, I’d make sure to balance the city’s fast-paced charm with some quiet countryside experiences. I’d take them to the rural parts of Pennsylvania and New Jersey, where farm-to-table restaurants serve some of the best food I’ve ever had. It’s the perfect contrast to the city and offers a peaceful retreat. Between NYC and the surrounding areas, it would definitely be a week to remember!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Absolutely! My journey wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support and encouragement of the people in my life. First and foremost, I want to thank my family, especially my wife, who has always stood beside me and supported me through all the highs and lows. Her belief in me and my vision has been a constant source of strength and inspiration.I also want to dedicate a heartfelt shoutout to my mother, who has been my constant support since childhood. She has always encouraged me to pursue my dreams and never once said no to anything I believed in. Both their unconditional love and faith in me have been the foundation of my journey.

In addition, I want to recognize my friends who have been my biggest cheerleaders and collaborators. Their trust in my creative process and willingness to contribute their time and energy to my projects have been invaluable.

I’m deeply inspired by the works of legendary filmmakers all around the world, whose storytelling has motivated me to think creatively and push boundaries in my own work.

Lastly, I want to express my gratitude to my audience and supporters. Their appreciation, feedback, and enthusiasm for my work keep me motivated to tell more stories. Every bit of encouragement has played a crucial role in shaping my journey. Thank you all!

Website: https://www.venkatsaigunda.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/venkysyg/

Twitter: https://x.com/venki_ss007

Facebook: Venkat Sai Gunda