Quite a beginning!

Mona

As an actor Rajniesh Duggall is greedy, very greedy, for appreciation. And that is one of the reasons why you will see him debut in a fiction show, Aarambh. A periodic drama that comes from the stable of Vijeyandra Prasad, the man, who gave us mighty Baahubali, the handsome hunk will be seen playing Varundev, a warrior.

Here’s more to this journey...

Why Aarambh?

I was blown away by the story. The character of Varundev is intense and challenges you at all levels – physically, for he is a warrior. Also emotionally and mentally, for he has a heart of gold. I did not want to let go of it.

Huge commitment

While I was keen on doing telly I was looking for a mini series. Star approached me with the script and I really wanted to tap this one, hence the huge commitment of a year-and-a-half. We started last June and it’s been an amazing journey – we have shot extensively at outdoor locations. It sure challenges one physically for one you are a warrior; next pitted against a woman as enemy, it has its shades of romance and more.

Winner always

Someone, just a few days ago, pointed out that whenever I am put in a contest I have to emerge the winner. That happened in school in athletics, with Mr India, Mr International, plenty of other modelling assignments and then Khatron Ke Khiladi!

Another reality show?

Khatron Ke Khiladi taught me a new lesson every day. The best it did to me that it stopped me over-thinking. Each day we would levae hotel at five in the morning and before  attempting our task, we had to take a mental call and over the period it became my standard response – let’s do it! I would love to do another reality show, what and when remains to be seen. 

Dream role

I have done a few historical dramas. What I am looking for is a sports flick or to play a man in uniform – Army, Navy or Air Force.

Models turned actors 

Well, the jinx is completely broken now that some of the top actors have been models in the past. Still, it is an individual journey and the two different fields. Not necessarily someone who is a good actor can model too or vice versa.

Telly time

I am a huge fan of reality TV.  Nach Baliye is my go-to show and I watch lots on Netflix right from Game of Thrones to Breaking Bad.

Punjab connect

My nani is from Jalandhar and my wife’s family is from Amritsar. We visit Jalandhar and Amritsar regularly. 

Up next

Udanchhoo is a comedy film directed by Vi pin Parashar and I play a thief.

Well, if you want more of this Khatron Ke Khiladi, tune in to Star Plus prime time starting June 24!