Stage is set for love

After working in films like Rock On 2 and Bhavesh Joshi, Priyanshu Painyuli is now seen in Extraction along with Chris Hemsworth. He talks about India’s first virtual play, Lockdown Love, in which he plays the lead.

Tell us about your background. How did acting happen to you?

My father is a retired Army officer, so I had various ambitions when I was young. From a fighter pilot to a cricketer, I wanted to be everything. But I was good on stage. I did a film-making course in Bengaluru and realised that I liked the craft of film-making and acting a lot. In 2010, I came to Mumbai with the dream of becoming an actor.

From theatre to web series to films—you have worked in various mediums. Which is closest to your heart?

Every medium has its own challenges.

Tell us about the movie Extraction…

This is an interesting project where I am looking dirty and am wearing loads of gold. I am playing a Bangladeshi mafia don.

How was working with Chris Hemsworth?

I am a big fan of Chris. He has a calm persona. You don’t feel you’re meeting a global star.

Your next project is Rashmi Rocket with Taapsee Pannu. What role do you play in that film?

I am playing Taapsee Pannu’s husband, who is an Army officer. Thanks to my Army background, I am familiar to the culture, so it was easy. Can’t reveal much about the project.

How are you utilising your lockdown time?

I have many musical instruments like flutes, harmonica and jambay. I never had any training. So now, I am learning to play them by watching YouTube videos.