Ashkelon Megnath creates magic

Newcastle had the honour of welcoming the star of a locally produced movie, Jaan at Mumbai Magic on December 3. Lead actor, Ashkelon Megnath, was glad to be invited, along with the producer, Retesh Dhevalall of Newcastle, to promote their very first masterpiece.

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Mr Megnath was born and raised in Durban, schooled at Ispingo Beach Primary School and Clairewood High School and studied business computing at ICESA. He is a part-time actor and works at their family car dealership.

“I became a dad this year and I’m really enjoying it. It is the best thing that ever happened to me. The biggest challenge in my life is being a dad while balancing work, pursuing an acting career and also hoping to be a good father and setting a good example.”

He said he enjoyed sport, exercising, watching all types of movies, and spending time with his seven-month-old baby, Mihan. Raised in a happy and disciplined home, Mr Megnath understood the value of family and found most of his happiness with his son.

Initially, he wanted to be a football player and acting was his back-up, but a serious injury put a stop to his football aspirations.

“My biggest thrill is being on a movie set. I admire Christian Bale because he is a brilliant actor and very dedicated to his craft. His work ethic is second to none. I know it is very tough to achieve success in acting, but I would rather try and fail than not trying at all.”

Mr Megnath always wanted to be well-known and respected, but not for the money. “I just wanted to be an inspiration and show people it is possible to pursue the impossible and succeed.”

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Jaan is about a man who has been through a lot in life and wanted to give his girlfriend everything of the best, but he was afraid to commit even though he had been with her for a long time.

“From my perspective, the lesson of the movie is no matter how long you’re in a relationship for, it is never fully guaranteed because life can throw a lot at you,” he said.

He said playing the role of Aadi, was fun and comfortable because he could relate to his character as they shared similar life experiences.

Because the film was independently produced, having a limited budget and no backing studio was challenging. “We all just had to put in that extra effort, give it our all and I think we really did well.”

“I thoroughly enjoyed Newcastle. It was my first time here, and the people, places, scenery and atmosphere are astonishing. I hope to come back soon. This was the first promotional event and we plan to do many more in the future.”

Mr Megnath was elated at the response from the people of Newcastle that made all the struggles worthwhile. “Newcastle was warm, receptive and supportive and built a great foundation for successful future projects.”

He praised Mr Dhevalall as a great producer, director and friend, and was thankful for the opportunity he gave him.

The star is currently working on another movie called Dear Jasmine, starring up-coming Durban actress, Pelisha Somiah, Johannesburg actor, Tasveer Maharaj, and first time director, Ashan Singh.

It is also a love story, in which Mr Megnath will be playing a supporting role.

They hope to release it next year and would love to come to Newcastle again to promote it and maybe even shoot here in the future.

“My advice to aspiring actors and actresses is to stay grounded, stick with people who support you in good and bad times and never stop learning. Always appreciate the fans because you are nothing without them, and remember always to stay humble,” he concluded.

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