‘I am a director’s actor’

Abhishek Malik, who plays the lead role of Neel Paranjape in Zee TV show Jamai No. 1, says every character needs to explore both positive and negative shades

Do you feel a character should go through ups and downs in a show to make it more relatable?

Yes. Everything can’t be hunky-dory for everyone, and there are situations where a character has to go through a range of emotions in their reel life. For instance, if a character is playing the lead as a good guy, they must portray various emotions for the audience to connect with them. Every character needs to explore both positive and negative shades. These moments, whether sad, emotional or intense, make the story more relatable and engaging.

How is your character different from the ones you have played before?

This show is very different from my previous roles. In my last show, Kumkum, my character had a grey shade. But in Jamai No. 1, Neel is a positive, lovable character. It’s refreshing to play someone so grounded, and the audience is loving it.

How much do you relate to your character?

I relate to Neel a lot. Like him, I am also religious and believe in standing up for what’s right. I respect my family deeply, just like Neel does. It feels like I’m playing a version of myself on screen.

How do you maintain a balance between your personal and professional life?

Daily soaps are indeed hectic and we barely get time for ourselves. Having been in the industry for 15 years now, I’ve learned how to balance things out. My physical activities, like gaming, often take a hit due to long shifts like 8 am to 8 pm. This year, I plan to fix that by joining a good gym because my personal health matters a lot.

Would you agree that lack of personal time can sometimes affect your professional life as well?

Yes, it can, but as mature individuals, we learn to balance it out. It’s important to allocate time wisely—to rest enough to stay fresh and productive. Everyone has to make adjustments, and it’s all about clear priorities and time management.

How do you plan to evolve as an actor this year?

I consider myself a director’s actor and follow the guidance given to me. Of course, I share my suggestions, and if they are feasible, we incorporate them. This year is going to be a rollercoaster and I’m looking forward to some good work. The show will evolve, and I’m confident that the audience will love it even more as the journey progresses.

What is your advice for youngsters?

If you want to become an actor, be resolute about your goals. Once you’ve made up your mind, there should be no turning back. Acting involves a lot of struggle and the competition is immense. You need to have a clear mindset and unwavering determination. Work on your skills, stay focused, and watch as many movies as possible to learn from them. Treat every day as a new challenge and constantly improve your craft. When I came to Mumbai, I had this mindset and it has helped me along the way.