Faisal Khan | The dancer, who is also an actor, made his TV debut with DID Little Masters Season 2.He speaks with SUPRIYA RAMESH about the show Garud, how connected he feels to his character, how tough was it for him to prepare for it and more
What is the show, Garud, about?
In Garud, we have showcased his story, where all he was present, his life and existence. Moreover, the story shows that Garud is sincere, who doesn’t spread hate, and has a special bond with lord Vishnu. That’s because Garud is the transport of lord Vishnu. Basically, things that weren’t spoken about anywhere else.
What is your role?
I’m playing Garud and I’m super lucky to play this character. That’s because this role has given me a lovely experience. This character has so many variations; he talks to his mother emotionally but he talks to his brothers differently. I had so much fun playing this character, though I wasn't able to do much physically because I carry wings and these were heavy. But the character is such that when I act it becomes complete.
How did you make it to this project? What do you personally think about such mythological shows?
People say that valuable lessons of life are passed down from elders to youngsters. These mythological events represent your place on the planet and we can learn a lot from them, like ups and downs and life lessons. I think these shows play an important role in teaching you a lot about life. If you see some foreign projects, I don't think you will learn much but India has so many things that teach you so many things, so you can learn a lot from these.
Why and how is the show relevant to today's viewers? How have the reviews been?
I think people are loving it and our TRP confirms that. People took out precious time from their busy lives; these things matter a lot to us.
They like my performance in the show and I love it. As always, I say that I don't have any reference. So the character that you see, I'm constructing it day by day. The response has been lovely, especially from my family with their love and support. It has been a blessing and we are glad.
Do you feel connected to the character in terms of qualities or character?
I think I'm very connected to it because, as I said, this character inspires me and I'm a mommy's boy. And Garud always heeds the words of his mother. My personal life is not as great as Garud's, but it's very beautiful and the connection is meaningful.
How tough was it to prepare for this role?
I had difficulties as there wasn't any reference. If you make Bahubali, you will get references regarding Bahubali and the works. Garud has been created by us and we are working on that character, day in and day out. I had to work physically with the wings and had to shoot in them. Different ways to walk in, out, sit, sleep. You might have seen in the show that Garud doesn't lie on the ground. So many things have been tough shooting-wise and screen-wise. And I have sai I didn't fight as much because of the heavy wings, which are a disadvantage.
But your TV debut happened with a dance show. How did that happen?
My TV debut was DID Little Masters Season 2. Actually I didn't think much; I used to learn dancing and give auditions. I didn't even know the real reason for the audition. I just knew that I would be shown on TV. I just needed those super wings that the judges used to give out for outstanding performances, which in fact I got only after giving so many auditions. Dancing gave me an identity and then an acting debut as well. Dance has done so much for me and gave me a TV debut as well. It feels great that people view me for my talent.
How did acting happen to you?
I never felt like acting but my father wanted me to be an actor. Once he asked me, ‘Will you be able to answer everything right’? He was about to take me to an audition. In the evening, I said ‘Yes’ but, in my mind, I believed that he was talking about studies so I was ready. Things like these have happened. But I was not even worthy of an audition back then. When I gave a dance audition for DID, I got an opportunity from Yash Raj films and it was a huge thing for me. Although it didn't work out in the end, I was inspired decided to start acting.