You update your mobile regularly—what about updating yourself? asks Vikrant Massey at the FLO Hyderabad session on Success Without Shortcuts

Hyderabad, January 6, 2028: “Money was the reason I stepped out of my home at the age of 16. My goal then was simple—to earn for education, a home, and eventually ₹1 lakh a month. I bought my house at 24. But over time, my definition of success changed. Today, after 21 years in the industry, I am the most content actor,” shared Vikrant Massey at an inspiring session organised by FLO Hyderabad.
 
The acclaimed actor, best known for films such as 12th Fail, was in conversation with Prathibha Kunda, Chairperson of FLO Hyderabad. Over 250 members of FICCI Ladies Organisation gathered at Hotel Daspalla, Jubilee Hills, to attend the session themed Success Without Shortcuts.
 
In her opening remarks, Prathibha Kunda said, “Success without shortcuts is about doing the right things consistently, even when no one is watching. It may take longer, but it builds credibility, character, and achievements that truly endure.”
 
Vikrant Massey, who began his career on television with Balika Vadhu and successfully transitioned to films and web series, elaborated that success is often the compound effect of repeated failures.
 
“Success doesn’t come easily—you have to work relentlessly for it. I don’t have an uncle in the industry who could produce a film for me. For every role, I must perform and position myself as a strong contender,” he said.
 
Speaking on adaptability, he remarked, “Shape up or ship out. We constantly update our mobile phones, but we forget to update ourselves. Learn, unlearn, and relearn must become the new normal to survive in today’s competitive world.”
 
Highlighting the importance of well-being, he added, “Good health is a big success. No matter how expensive the clothes you wear, without energy from within, it doesn’t matter.”
 
Addressing the popular notion that money doesn’t bring happiness, Vikrant candidly said, “I don’t agree with people who say money doesn’t give happiness. Money does give happiness. It gives confidence—and confidence leads to happiness.”
 
Reflecting on his journey from television to cinema, the 38-year-old actor said he takes pride in his roots and noted that many of India’s greatest stars—including Shah Rukh Khan and Naseeruddin Shah—also began their careers on television.
 
When asked about the obsession with visibility and social media in the industry, he responded, “I’m not a social-media person. I don’t party, nor do I believe that socialising gets you work. What truly matters is what you do in front of the camera.”
 
Sharing personal inspirations, Vikrant said, “My home is sacred to me. My mother is my greatest inspiration. Though not connected to the film world, I deeply admire Rahul Dravid for his values and integrity.”
 
He concluded by sharing his non-negotiables: spending weekends with family and keeping his personal life out of the media spotlight.