Shantanu Maheshwari brought a performer’s perspective to Arena Animation’s Perspectives 2026 in Mumbai, where more than 1,000 students and industry professionals gathered to discuss careers in animation, VFX, gaming, digital design and filmmaking.
The actor, dancer and performer was among the key guests at the annual industry engagement platform, which marked Arena Animation’s 30-year milestone. The event focused on how young creators can prepare for a media and entertainment industry increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, immersive technologies and digital storytelling.
Shantanu Maheshwari shares career advice with students
Maheshwari’s interaction with students centred on discipline, learning and resilience, themes closely linked to his own journey across dance, television, films and live performance. Addressing the students, he said, “Every creative journey begins with a dream, but it is discipline, continuous learning and resilience that transform dreams into careers.”
He added that meeting the students and watching their participation in Arena’s Got Talent and other activities was inspiring. His message was aimed at young aspirants trying to turn creative interests into sustainable careers in a competitive entertainment economy.
The Mumbai edition also featured Dr Amit Behl, actor Aditya Deshmukh, animator and designer Vaibhav More, among others.
Beyond celebrity interactions, the event worked as a bridge between classroom training and industry realities. Students attended keynote sessions at the event. Arena Animation said the aim was to give students both exposure and a platform for confidence, collaboration and self-expression.
