Karan Kundrra, who was last seen in Dolly Kitty Aur Woh Chamakte Sitare, says the beauty of cities in Punjab lies in the bonds with family and friends

Mona

Karan Kundrra loves to live life king-size. Born and brought up in Jalandhar, he was last seen in Dolly Kitty Aur Woh Chamakte Sitare and is looking forward to shooting in Haryana next. Karan, who made a debut on television with Kitani Mohabbat Hai, talks about his journey and the way ahead.

• How did the lockdown go for you?

The first month of the lockdown came as a welcome break. I was shooting for two shows - It Happened in Calcutta, Dil Hi TohHai -and a film in Karnal. It came as a surprise break from the breakneck pace. A month on I joined my parents in Florida (the US) and had some great time with them; my sister, brother-in-law and their children. It was only then that I realised how important it was to get out of the work bubble and stay with the family. Though I admit I did start to miss work by the end of it all.

• The entertainment industry is lately been shown in negative light, does it bother you?

Partying, drugs, outsider debate; it’s rather a dampener that our industry is painted in such a bad light. I do not say things don’t happen. I have been here for 12 years, but life is what you make of it and that’s true for any profession. I came sans any Godfather; I have done the best of soaps and reality shows, and now am into films. I would say there is more good than bad here. I have never taken any drugs, never even talked about them.

• Telly actor with unsuccessful film careers; you think the jinx is over?

TV actors not making it to films is a jinx long broken! Shah Rukh Khan has enjoyed huge success. I was given a chance in 1921 by Vikram Bhatt, opposite Zareen Khan, and the film did well. Ekta has trusted me many times and I have proved myself. It’s no more about big screen or small; OTT has huge reach.

• How was it growing up in Punjab?

I feel fortunate to be born and brought up in Jalandhar. My childhood was full on warmth and friendship. Cities in Punjab are all about bonds with family and friends. Many times people ask me how Iremain unaffected by situations and I tell them that is how Punjabis live!

• Are you a fan of Punjabi music and films?

Punjabi music is at another level and I am a huge fan of Sidhu Moosewala. Hailing from a small city and creating waves internationally, he has done quite well. Though I am unaware about the controversies he has landed in, I admire how he has risen to where he is today.

• Would you be open to offers from Pollywood?

Though I have not seen many Punjabi films, but I believe touching subjects have been shown on screen. I would be all in if offered a film that tells a story worth telling! While I consider Udta Punjab to be a cinematic success, I beg to differ - that's not the real Punjab!

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