From his debut on the singing reality show Indian Idol to his recent role in the film Ulajh, Meiyang Chang's journey in the Indian entertainment industry spans nearly two decades. In a recent, candid conversation, the actor-singer reflected on his career's highs and lows, his identity beyond his looks, and the discipline that fuels his work.
A Calculated Risk That Paid Off
When asked how his life might have unfolded without Indian Idol, Chang, who is also a qualified dentist, offered a pragmatic view. "It wouldn't have been so exciting, but I believe I would have done well as a dentist too," he stated. He revealed that auditioning for the show was a calculated risk, with a solid professional backup plan. "I'm a practical kind of guy," he explained, expressing gratitude for being able to follow his passion.
On Fairness and Untapped Potential in Bollywood
Addressing whether the film industry has been fair to him, Chang chose a philosophical and humble stance. "It would be arrogant of me to judge the fairness or lack thereof as an individual, because the industry has given a lot to this outsider. And mind you, I'm not your typical one," he said in the interview dated December 30, 2025.
However, he confidently asserted that his capabilities have not been fully explored. "What I can confidently say is that it hasn't yet unearthed my full potential as an actor," Chang remarked. He emphasized that he brings more to the table than just his appearance or background. "I've played some exciting roles over the years, but I'm more than just my looks or ethnicity, and I am capable of much more." He added that he is working hard and waiting for a shift in industry thought processes to bring about new opportunities.
Discipline in Fitness and a Realist's Mindset
Chang shared details of his rigorous fitness routine, which is key for an actor's life. His regimen includes weight training 3-4 times a week, supplemented with runs, yoga, and Pilates. He stressed the importance of rest, hydration, and meditation, calling the process "clinical, sometimes dull, but very effective."
His approach to diet is balanced, focusing on portion control rather than deprivation. He prefers authentic Asian cuisine for its health benefits and flavor. To handle the unpredictable lows of showbiz, Chang relies on being a realist. "I'm very grateful for the good times. And when the going is tough, I know I must batten down to weather the storm," he said, advising that work, while important, is not life itself.
Cherishing the Stage and Evolving Storytelling
Despite his on-screen work, Chang's love for live performance remains strong. He recently performed an intimate, unplugged set of Hindi and Urdu pop and ghazals at the Udaipur Tales International Storytelling Festival, a departure from his usual Bollywood gigs. "The connection matters, not the medium," he stated, explaining what draws him back to the stage.
On the evolution of storytelling, he believes the art form will never die but will adapt to contemporary attention spans and trends. "Current trends suggest that live, bite-sized, relatable personal experiences & repackaged nostalgia is all the rage," he observed, noting the shift towards snappier narratives even as traditional forms continue to resonate.
Throughout the interview, Chang highlighted his collaborations with seasoned actors like Naseeruddin Shah, Arshad Warsi, and Gulshan Devaiah, who he says bring a joyful gravitas to sets. He also revealed a lesser-known side of himself: "I'm deeply philosophical." This introspection, combined with his disciplined work ethic, defines Meiyang Chang's ongoing journey as he awaits roles that truly challenge his unexplored potential as a performer.
