Talking Point

This is the first time you are playing a historical character. How did you prepare yourself?

Honestly,I have not flipped through history books to find what Hirabai was like. I am relying on the script. As an actor,my job is to play the part given to me well. I am not trying to see whether the adaptation is real or not.

Do you intentionally choose characters who have a

negative streak?

You can say so. As it turns out,most of the exciting characters have a negative streak. With such characters,one has a lot more to offer. Every time I am on the sets,even the crew members wait for me to deliver something different that day. This adds excitement to the daily chore.

You have done both television shows and movies. What have you enjoyed the most?

I have loved playing every character. My role in Kasamh Se got me an award and I got nominated twice in a row for my film roles. I have loved being a part of the Golmaal team. I look forward to the release of the third part now. Currently,I am shooting for a Telegu film,and it’s exciting that,for the first time,I am speaking and acting in a language I don’t know.

You are a seasoned actor. How has the journey been so far?

I learn every day. Today,there are so many trained newcomers in the television industry. Even seasoned actors have to work hard to keep their act together. Even today,I stress on rehearsals before the shoot.If newcomers in television act as inspiration,what is a seasoned actor’s role on the sets?

Their job is to keep things uncomplicated and avoid controversies. For example,I insist on sticking to the role described to me during narration. I don’t encourage backstabbing or manipulation. Competition should be healthy. The seasoned actors know that only good work pays in the end.