Chetan Hansraj talks about his show Pracchand Ashok, where he plays the character of Bindusar

Can you share some details about the show Pracchand Ashok?

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Set in the Kalinga dynasty of yore, Pracchand Ashok unfolds as a timeless romance that reshaped the essence of love and left an indelible mark on history. The narrative follows the captivating journey of Emperor Ashok and Princess Kaurwaki, two individuals starkly different yet intertwined by destiny. As their ideals clash, this saga becomes a trailblazer, shaping the course of history.

Tell us something about your character.

I am playing the role of Bindusar, the son of Chandragupta Maurya and Ashok’s father. He is a strong and intelligent leader. Despite his calm appearance, he is determined to grow and protect his kingdom’s greatness. Known for his smart decisions in both diplomacy and military matters, he takes the empire to new heights. However, he faces challenges within his family, particularly with his sons competing for the throne.

What characteristic of Bindusar do you resonate with the most?

As a father myself, I resonate with the intricate father-son relationship between Bindusar and Ashok. The blend of strictness and profound love is universally relatable. There were poignant moments during the shoot, especially when a metaphorical curtain separated Bindusar and Ashok. These instances brought real emotions into play, creating a challenging and deeply emotional experience.

How did you train for the role?

Over the past four months, my training regime has centered around physical fitness and combat training, all geared towards embodying Bindusar as a warrior king. I opted for natural workouts, steering clear of the bodybuilder look that’s prevalent today. My focus has been on cultivating strength through natural means.

What kind of research did you undergo to get into the skin of a historical figure like Bindusar?

For the role of Bindusar, I did extensive research. To understand the nuances of the character, I read articles available online and gathered whatever information I could find offline as well.

You will be reuniting with Rakshanda Khan in Pracchand Ashok. How is it working with her?

Working with Rakshanda has been great. We share a great rapport, and she’s a fabulous actor. We know each other from college days and often on the sets take a trip down memory lane, recalling the days of fashion shows and college visits.

Do you think you are typecast as a villain?

In the vast sea of characters and actors, those who are typecast tend to leave a lasting impression. While some may view typecasting as negative, I see it as a positive aspect of my career. When you are typecast, it means you’ve made a significant impact in a particular role. I hope that whenever Bindusar’s name comes up, people will remember me. I’ll give it my all to make that happen.