Ugly turns beautiful!

Actor Rahul Bhat, who is still remembered as Sameer from the popular television serial Heena, is back on the silver-screen with Anurag Kashyap’s latest film, Ugly. We caught up with him to talk about the film that’s been getting rave reviews.

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Are you happy with theresponse to Ugly?

It’s turning out to be beautiful. I’ve been reading all the reviews and people have been calling and congratulating me. It’s really overwhelming and heart-warming to see that people loved the film as well as my work in it.

How challenging was it toplay this role?

It was actually a very challenging role. I play a father whose daughter is missing, so I had to have this wired look. We wanted the character to look older, with dark circles. So, through most of the shooting for the film, I was hungry and sleep deprived! I also indulged in a few drinks to really look the part. However, I thoroughly enjoyed playing the role.

Did you have any expectations from the film?

I always thought that the film was for a niche audience. So, I’m surprised that people from all over the country are acknowledging it. I didn’t know that it would appeal to such a wide audience. I’m really happy that it has!

After Nayee Padosan, you disappeared for almost eight years. What kept you busy?

I did the TV show Heena for five years. After that, I debuted in Bollywood with Umesh Mehra’s Yeh Mohabhat Hai, which was followed by the comedy Nayee Padosan. I was tired of giving a 100% to every role I played and not getting the results I desired. So, I decided to give myself a break and relax. I thought I deserved it because I had worked really hard. Call it stupid or crazy, but I didn’t meet any directors or producers after that. I just wanted to work with people who gave their 100%, just like I did. That’s when Ugly happened. I have a production company, so in the meantime we made shows like Tum Dena Saath Mera, Chhu Kar Mere Mann Ko and Meri Doli Tere Angana. I still remember my friends joking that while I did meet producers or directors, it seemed as though I would only do a film if Anurag Kashyap offered me a role. Strangely enough, that’s exactly what happened!

How did you get this role?

I met Anurag at a party and he immediately offered me the film. It was surprising.

What’s next for you?

I’m going to resume shooting for Sudhir Mishra’s upcoming film Aur Devdas. I am playing Devdas in the film and again, it’s a very challenging role.