Story is the real hero, says actor Ankit Rathi

• Tell us about your role in the film…

I am playing the character named Salman, who has all the flavours of Hyderabad. He is madly in love and knows no boundary.

• How challenging was it to pick up a Hyderabadi accent?

Initially, I was a bit nervous about the accent. But reaching Hyderabad a week prior to the shoot really helped me. I got familiar with the culture, language and humour. Hyderabadi language has a different feel altogether; it is one of those languages you enjoy speaking. I picked a few terms like Hau, nako, abba and more.

• How difficult was it to romance Jahnavi Dhanrajgir in front of her dad, who is the director of this film?

Actually, we never saw it that way. We were just actors on sets and Tarun Dhanrajgir sir is an actor himself, so he gave us the space we needed.

• What is your viewpoint on nepotism?

I have learnt to accept that fact. I think nepotism is in every profession. Yes, I have missed on a few projects and sometimes you feel discouraged. But there’s another side to it. As an outsider, you learn to make your own way and it really adds up to your personality. So I won’t complain.

• How do you handle rejection?

Rejection can be tough to deal with, especially when you’re really close. But over the years I have learnt that it is a part of my journey. Hence I would advise newcomers to give as many auditions they can as you keep getting better.

• How do you pick your roles?

For me, the story is the real hero. As an artiste, I have been fortunate enough to be part of some beautiful stories. So it doesn’t really matter if it’s a primary or secondary character because I’ve always believed that – ‘There are no small parts, only small actors’.