A historical chapter

Handsome television actor Shaleen Bhanot, who made a debut on the small screen with MTV Roadies in 2004, has been a part of many shows, including Saat Phere, Kul Vaddhu, Naagin, Aahat, Sangam, Nach Baliye 4 and Suryaputra Karan. Now, Shaleen has been roped-in to play the role of Mahaa Singh, the father of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, in Life OK’s upcoming show Sher-E-Punjab — Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Shaleen talks about the show and more. 

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Why did you choose this show?

When I heard the story and the character, I immediately agreed because I have never seen a historical show that has been so intriguing. 

What is your role and look like?

I am playing Mahaa Singh, who was the first person to promote the teachings and principles of Waheguru. So even though the protagonist is Ranjit Singh, the story starts from me. My look is  ethnic; I sport a pagdi, something which I am doing for the first time.

What is the USP of the show?

The scale of the show is going to be movie-like. The content and the way it will be shown will be supremely grand. 

How difficult is it to work in a historical drama as compared to a saas-bahu show? 

It is a very difficult task because saas-bahu shows are confined to a room, a hall, a bedroom but historical shows are extensively shot outdoors and involve war sequences, horses, swords and much more.

How was your experience working with stunt director Allan Amin?

It was great fun shooting with a veteran like Allan Amin.  

What are the challenges you faced while performing war sequences?

This is the first time as an actor that I actually rode a horse. So that was a challenge! 

How is your bonding with your co-actors?

The bonding with Sneha Wagh, Damanpreet Singh, Sonia Singh, Chandrachur Singh, Raman Trikha and Anuradha Patel, is very good. 

What are your future plans?

My current and future plan is to make this show a success.