Nitin Ganatra talks Acting, EastEnders & More

Across a lengthy, illustrious career in television and film, Nitin Ganatra OBE has established himself as one of the UK’s most talented actors.

Nitin has starred in several acclaimed movies. However, in Britain, he is perhaps best known as Masood Ahmed in BBC’s EastEnders.

Masood arrived in Walford in 2007, as the husband of the formidable Zainab Masood (Nina Wadia).

Nitin played the role across various stints from 2007 to 2019 and created one of the show’s most loved characters in Masood.

His onscreen chemistry with Nina remains one of the soap’s most popular.

After departing EastEnders in 2019, Nitin continued impressing the audience with his charisma and has proved his talent in art.

His paintings have been universally acclaimed and have represented Nitin’s multifaceted abilities in colourful, deep ways.

In our exclusive chat, Nitin Ganatra divulged his career, his thoughts on representation, EastEnders, and more. 

What inspired you to be an actor? 

When I was a kid, all I ever wanted to do was be an artist.

I struggled with confidence, but I always felt at home with a sketchbook and pen.

That changed when a teacher, Lynn Long, took me under her wing and encouraged me to join the school play.

In my first year, I was just part of the background ensemble, but something about being on stage felt right.

By the second year, I landed the best role in the show, and my confidence began to grow – I started to blossom.

At the same time, I was watching actors like Ray Winstone, Om Puri, and Tim Roth.

There was a power in their performances that struck me at 15 years old. I remember thinking: “That’s it. That’s what I want to do.” 

Can you describe your experience working in films such as Bride & Prejudice and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory? 

These were two very different experiences.

Bride and Prejudice was an absolute joy – not just because I had the chance to work with Gurinder Chadha and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, but because Gurinder trusted me to build my character and gave me the creative freedom to explore.

I had so much fun with that role that people still talk about it today.

On Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, I had the incredible opportunity to work with Johnny Depp and Tim Burton – both of whom were heroes of mine.

To my surprise, when I arrived on set, I was encouraged to be creative and experiment with the character.

Both films reinforced what I love most about acting – the chance to be both skilful and imaginative.

Those are the kinds of jobs I thrive on.

Can you tell us about your audition for EastEnders and what attracted you to the role of Masood Ahmed? 

I don’t think I actually auditioned for the role. I had previously auditioned for the Ferreira family but didn’t get the part.

With Masood, it was a different experience. I had a chat with the Producer and Storyliner.

They asked if I’d be interested in giving it a go. I thought it was a great opportunity.

I had never done a soap before, and knowing how much my mum wanted me to be on EastEnders, it felt great to make her dream come true. 

During your years in EastEnders, which of your storylines particularly stand out and why? 

It’s hard to pick just one storyline because each comes with its own challenges.

Of course, the storyline involving Syed (Marc Elliot) was a huge hit, and Masood and Zainab’s divorce was another big moment.

There was also a phase where Masood became a bit of a drinker.

I really enjoyed that arc, though it didn’t seem to stir up much controversy! 

I’m not sure if there’s anything I’d change about my time on EastEnders.

I gave it my all, and it seemed to have an impact.

I always tried to make every scene matter, no matter how small, and that’s something I’ve carried throughout my career. 

In your opinion, what more can British television do to represent South Asian artists and performers? 

Simply put – give us more opportunities. More jobs, more shows, and more leading roles instead of just supporting parts, which is so often the case.

And with that, it’s crucial to move away from the long-standing stereotypes.

It’s always more powerful to play a character rather than just a culture.

What advice would you give to budding actors from a similar background as you? 

I’m not sure I’m in a position to give advice to aspiring actors. I’m still learning my craft myself.

But if I had to say anything, it would be this: keep practising and honing your skills.

People will often underestimate you.

But if you stay sharp, you’ll surprise them and make them think: “Wow, they’re better than I expected!”

That said, acting is a tough profession. The Asian in me says: “Go to university, get a degree, and have a Plan B.”

Changing your mind isn’t a sign of failure. It’s just part of the journey. 

Did you expect your artwork to have this significant and positive reaction as it has? 

I’ve been truly overwhelmed by the response to my artwork.

I started sharing it after lockdown, and the positivity and encouragement have been incredible.

It’s even led to exhibiting in galleries and selling my paintings and prints.

Art was always my first love. I wanted to be an artist, but life took a different path, leading me into acting.

Now, returning to the art world feels like a homecoming, filled with joy and enthusiasm. 

Nitin Ganatra is an artist and an actor of immense magnitude and talent.

His dedication to his craft shines through whether on the canvas or on our screens. 

You can check out more of his beautiful artwork right here.

As Nitin Ganatra continues to explore new horizons and entertain us, we are all here to support him.