Dipti Mehta

Dr. Dipti Mehta is an Indian American actress, playwright, and scientist with parallel careers in the performing arts and biomedical research. Mehta holds bachelor's and master's degrees in microbiology and a doctoral degree in molecular and cellular biology with a focus in cancer biology. She worked as a research scientist in the field of prostate cancer at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center for a decade before transitioning to a full-time career in the arts.

Mehta discovered her interest in acting at age six when she was cast in a school play, marking the beginning of her journey as a performing artist. At 12, she was selected by an All India Radio Program Executive Officer at an elocution competition and became the only radio jockey at All India Radio's FM station in Mumbai, hosting music shows in both English and Hindi. Mehta earned her Ph.D. in molecular and cellular biology from the University of Arizona, pursuing artistic ambitions alongside her scientific studies before relocating to New York City to focus on acting.

Mehta is recognized for her portrayal of Reina in "Life! Camera Action...," a role that brought her multiple international awards and nominations. She was invited to perform at the World Music & Independent Film Festival's gala awards ceremony in Washington, D.C., where she was nominated for the Best Actress award for her performance in "Life! Camera Action...," sharing the stage with Carol Connors. Mehta also appeared as the lead in "Penumbra," a short film showcased at the Short Film Corner at the Cannes Film Festival. Her film and television credits include "The Blacklist" on NBC and "The Golden Boy" on CBS.

As a playwright and performer, Mehta is known for her one-woman show, "HONOUR: Confessions of a Mumbai Courtesan," which features original music and a narrative set in the red-light districts of Mumbai. The show examines inter-generational prostitution and addresses issues of sex trafficking and human rights. "HONOUR" was named Best Solo Show at New York's FRINGE festival and received critical acclaim from Time Out NYC. The production has provided Mehta with a platform to advocate for women's rights and speak on issues related to gender and inequity.

In addition to her work on stage and screen, Mehta is active as a writer and advocate. She was commissioned to write "Priya and the Lost Girls," the third chapter in the comic book series "Priya's Shakti," which launched worldwide. Her work has received coverage from media outlets including Al Jazeera, BBC, Huffington Post, and Times of India. Mehta is a frequent speaker on topics related to gender bias, drawing on her background in molecular biology, Bollywood, Broadway, and social activism to address audiences across disciplines.