I am an expressionist: Mantra

You’re an actor, RJ, VJ, host, director and producer. Which role do you prefer the most?

I am an expressionist. I express through different forms of art. As a performing artiste, I believe in mediums that quench my thirst for expression.

In a world where short films and web series are taking over, how much do you think people will be able to relate to podcasts?

Essentially all of them are forms of storytelling. People enjoy consuming interesting stories. It doesn’t matter which form you use, as long as you know how to tell a tale. I make audio-fiction podcasts which are a marriage among theatre, cinema and radio. And I am enjoying this threesome.

What was the inspiration behind Virus 2026?

Virus 2062 came to me through my partnership with Spotify. They wanted to adapt the Spanish podcast into Hindi. It was originally written by Julio Rojas from Chile. When I read the English draft, I was blown away. I was completely sucked into the conspiracy theories suggested by the protagonist, and I felt the emotion was universal.

How did Ali Fazal and Richa Chadha react to the concept of this podcast?

Ali and Richa have been absolutely phenomenal. We spoke and discussed the scripts over and over before we hit the studios. Ali would call late in the night to discuss the possibilities. As a director, I couldn’t have asked for more than this, when actors involve themselves in the process.

From your point of view, what makes a good storyteller?

A good storyteller is the one who can paint pictures in the mind of the audience.

Be it sports (IPL) or reality shows or music videos, you’ve been a part of projects across genres. What do you enjoy the most and why?

I relish everything I do. I am fortunate to have the pleasure of multiple forms of performing arts. I don’t just do it because I can do it. I do it because I enjoy the process.

Who has been your inspiration?

My artistic inspirations come from various sources. From people, places, different folk, and mostly nature. If you want to observe creation, nothing better than mother nature.

Tell us about the upcoming projects under your banner, MnM Talkies.

MnM Talkies is all set to release a series of audio-fiction podcasts in the coming months, starring some of the most amazing actors and shows ranging from romance, horror, true crime, sci-fi, detective dramas, thriller podcasts, paranormal fiction, history and documentaries.

When will we see you on screen next?

I am currently hosting the IPL. Then looking forward to the release of my next film Rashmi Rocket in which I play the coach of the Indian Track and field women’s team. I have just finished shooting for the mega period project Gulkanda Tales for Raj and DK, directed by Rahi Anil Barve.

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