I was a huge star on EastEnders with some of the soap’s most controversial storylines – now I’m an artist
EASTENDERS fans know Nitin Ganatra as Masood Ahmed on the soap, where he started out as Albert Square’s postman.
However, he has a very different job away from the show these days.
The actor-turned-artist, 56, posted a video to Instagram yesterday where he shared some of his work with fans.
He held up a stunning print and described how he produced the colourful piece with a shimmering effect.
In his caption, Nitin encouraged his followers to head to his website where they can buy his posters for up to £225 each.
He wrote, “I got quite emotional seeing how this boys journey has taken a new life in the prints.
“My artwork is an expression of something that sits deep inside wanting and waiting to be heard. To find a voice. To live in the world. Safely.
“The response. Your response has been incredible and moving for me for so many reasons that I can’t put in a post. I am stunned at how many of you look deeply into the paintings and connect with them on an emotional level.
“It doesn’t suit me to paint pretty pictures, I can only paint from the heart, and hope that you look at them also, from the heart. I am deeply grateful for your response.
“Please go to – nitinganatra.com to view some work. It’ll all be signed by meself and sent to you with love and gratitude.”
Since leaving the BBC soap in 2019, he’s been busy putting in the hours – working at his family’s newsagents inbetween acting jobs, including a recent role in Netflix hit .
In a recent interview with The Sun, he admitted customers are often shocked when they see him stacking shelves at the store in Coventry.
“People do double-takes when I’m there helping my brother with the papers at 4.30 in the morning, and especially working in the shop. It’s a bit bizarre,” he told us.
“But it’s my family’s business, so why would I not help out? It’s normal to me.
“If you’re visiting your family, you can’t just expect to be served, you have to join in.”