‘Work keeps me happy’

What prompted you to take up the show Leila? 

My role in Leila is of a strong, disciplined soldier of the cult Aryavarta. He is the head of the purity camp in the story and has his own way of running this organisation, using various techniques of enforcing the tenets of the purity camp. It was a strong part with a few shades, which I found engrossing.

Have you worked with director Deepa Mehta in the past.?

I had the pleasure of working with Deepa Mehta in the film 1947—Earth. That was a cherished experience in 1998. Leila has been directed by a trio of directors — Deepa Mehta, Shanker Raman and Pawan Kumar.

Web content is bold and at the same time realistic. What is your take on that? 

Since there is no censorship, web content has the muscle to display its diverse narrative uninhibitedly. But in a country like India, with its diversity and traditions, beliefs, etc, we have to be responsible about showing content. 

What do you have to say about the content on TV today? 

Times have changed and content has been moulded by market sentiment. It’s a bit of a herd mentality now, where one type of content works and people start making shows on similar subjects. 

Do you feel your talent has been utilised rightly? 

I’ve had the good fortune of working with talented people.  Whether my talent has been utilised? I guess, I’ve tried and still try to make the most of these opportunities.

How do you unwind yourself? 

Work keeps me happy, so I’m happy being on the set.