We often hear the adage, “Life begins at forty.” But truthfully, life can begin anytime unfettered by age, gender, or circumstance.
It is a notion that resonates deeply with Mouli Ganguly, a Melbourne-based talent who has embraced a new chapter with fearless authenticity. A former IT professional, Mouli’s Bengali roots naturally imbue him with a creative spirit—a spirit that, once shelved behind career and family responsibilities, has now found its true calling on stage and screen.
In a world where dreams often fade behind the demands of daily life, Mouli stands as a reminder that passion never truly disappears; it simply waits for the right moment to bloom. Encouraged by the unwavering support and love of his wife, Aradhana Ganguly, Mouli has fearlessly stepped into the world of theatre and film, embodying the belief that it is never too late to begin anew.
Lovingly known as "Kaku" within Melbourne’s Bengali community, Mouli is a familiar and beloved figure, often seen performing sacred duties as a priest during Durga Puja celebrations. Yet recently, he has taken a bold leap into the limelight with his film debut in Nandini—part of Mind Blowing Films’ My Melbourne anthology, directed by the acclaimed Onir.
As Mihir, Mouli captivates audiences with a performance that transcends the screen, marking a poignant beginning to what promises to be a luminous artistic journey.
In conversation with G’day India, Mouli Ganguly opens up about his newfound passion, his thirst for storytelling, and the joy of bringing Mihir to life. His story is not just about an individual finding a second act—it is about the timeless, boundless nature of dreams and the beauty of giving oneself permission to soar.
Q: Who is Mouli Ganguly?
A: I am a multidimensional creative, shaped by spirituality, community, business, and mentoring. Educated at IIT Kharagpur and IIM Ahmedabad, I have balanced a successful international business career with a passion for theatre.
In 43 years in Australia, I have staged over 40 productions focused on social issues and mental wellbeing, while mentoring hundreds of multicultural talents. During COVID-19, I ventured into short films, earning 17 international festival selections and awards.
Recently, I played Mihir in My Melbourne, directed by Onir, and received rave reviews in both Australia and India. I also starred in Beyond Boundaries, based on Tagore’s Achalayatan.
As a community priest and multicultural leader, I am guided by Swami Vivekananda’s teaching to manifest divinity through action. Currently, I direct Melbourne Masterminds and am developing film projects for release in 2026–27.
Q: You are well-known in business and the community. How did this passion for acting arise?
A: I have always felt an invisible force guiding my journey—from my education at IIT and IIM to my international business career and priesthood in Melbourne.
While I found fulfilment helping our diverse community, my passion for theatre was always alive. COVID-19 inspired me to create stories of hope for our multicultural society. That same force led me to My Melbourne, where I had the privilege to work with a fantastic team.
My role was warmly received in both India and Australia, thanks to the guidance of director Onir, producer Mitu, DOP Brad, and editor Mitesh.
Q: In what ways has theatre shaped you as an actor?
A: Theatre has deeply shaped me as both an actor and a person. I follow the Tchaikovsky method—becoming the character, not merely acting.
When I act, I do not perform—I become the character. In My Melbourne, I was not playing Mihir; I was Mihir, living every moment as him.
Each role allows me to experience a character’s emotions and journey, making me more empathetic and accepting. This constant transformation enriches my soul and grounds me in positive energy.
Q: How challenging was it to portray Mihir, a Bengali father coming to terms with his son's same-sex relationship?
A: That is a very interesting question. I have two grown-up sons, both very different, and Onir and I spoke openly about my relationships with them, as well as with my own father.
A father’s inability to accept a son’s sexual orientation can be deeply emotional, but non-acceptance can exist in many forms, leaving a son feeling rejected.
It was this core emotion I channelled into Mihir. Once that underlying tension was established—layered with Mihir’s deep love for his only son—the rest came naturally to me.
Q: At an age when many consider retirement, what motivated you to start a new career in films?
A: It is the same guiding force I mentioned earlier. As new opportunities arise, some past responsibilities naturally fall away, allowing me to embrace new challenges.
For years, my business career kept me away from Melbourne, then priestly duties took centre stage. In My Melbourne, fittingly, I even perform a Puja.
Now, as my film career grows, the load from priestly duties has lessened—almost as if by design. Age is just a number; icons like Clint Eastwood and Amitabh Bachchan prove that.
With experience, trust in the journey, fitness, and a passion for learning, I am excited to keep moving forward, guided by that same invisible force.
Q: What is the most difficult decision you have made in life?
A: Choosing between my passion for performing arts and the practical commitments life placed before me.
I chose a conventional career path, while quietly nurturing my love for theatre. Today, stepping fully into acting and directing feels profoundly fulfilling as if everything has come full circle.
This moment, right now, feels as good as it gets—a beautiful blend of dreams once deferred, now fully embraced.
Q: What is next for you?
A: I hope to take on more challenging roles, working with great directors and producers across genres.
I am passionate about projects that promote women’s empowerment, mental wellbeing, and address issues like domestic violence and generational gaps within the Indo-Australian community.
I also dream of helping break down barriers for South Asian creatives in Australia.
Eventually, I hope to explore directing films myself—telling stories that truly resonate and carry powerful, meaningful messages.
Q: What advice do you have for aspiring actors or individuals anxious about starting anew?
A: Be true to your art. Embrace every opportunity as a chance to learn and grow. Have unwavering faith in your ability to navigate life’s challenges—the great gymnasium that it is.
And most importantly, as Swami Vivekananda said, ‘Stop not till your goal is reached.’
By Nandita Chakraborty