Interview: ‘Waack Girls’ actress Diya Patel on redefining traditional representations of South Asian women in media
Known for the TV series Waack Girls, Diya Patel challenges traditional representations of South Asian women in media. From working with her mom on modeling campaigns to theater productions of “Nell Gwynn” and “Wounds to the Face,” Patel steps further into her journey as a performer with the Prime Video India series that tells the story of a group of young women who found empowerment and unity through the art of waacking, a form of dance that originated in the LGBTQ+ clubs of Los Angeles in the ’70s.
“My love for theater and cinema began early,” the actress from Mumbai, India, tells Hollywood First Look in an interview. “My mother recalls that as a baby, I was mesmerized by the television and could stare at it all day. In high school, I joined the improv club and took theatre and film classes, solidifying my passion.”
Patel recalls the role that changed her life. “In high school, I played a young woman obsessed with makeup in Howard Barker’s ‘Wounds to the Face.‘ The play explores how we perceive ourselves and others through the face. Playing such a complex character ignited something within me, and that’s when my passion for acting began.”
Patel’s mother is a photographer, and her father is a graphic designer. This influenced her creativity as they exposed her to it at a young age, cultivating a deep appreciation for all art forms. “Working with my mom has been a career highlight,“ Patel says. “Watching a master at work is an honor and privilege. I feel lucky to have created memorable work with my mother. Capturing parts of me that only she knows makes a big difference.”
In Waack Girls, she plays a young bride about to marry into a wealthy Calcutta family. “I play a strong-minded character who is willing to stand up for herself and what she believes in,“ Patel describes. “The well-written script caught my attention. I’d never heard of waacking before, and I was attracted to the idea of playing a bold and outspoken character.”
Waack Girls is the first TV show about waacking ever, and it reveals an aspect that challenges the traditional notion of young South Asian women. The actress says it has been a privilege to be part of the team.
Patel practices a “Living Life Off Leash“ philosophy, which is all about embracing one’s true self. “I believe we should all allow ourselves the freedom to take control of our lives and live with no restrictions,” she tells Hollywood First Look. “Embrace every moment, dare to dream, and be fearless.”
The Waack Girls actress went on to talk about a moment when she dared to dream. “Beginning my career in L.A. at the start of the pandemic was incredibly challenging,” Patel shared. “I had moved to a city with no friends, no means of transport, and no job. I persevered through this challenge, and in eight months, I found a job and a working visa granted to outstanding individuals in a specific field.”
As for the future, Patel is writing a few projects about which she’s very excited. “I’m hoping to be a part of more projects that inspire and thrill people,” she says, “and I will certainly continue my work with animals.”
