The ultimate roadie, Rannvijay Singh, feels that the young people of the country are extremely capable of making the change provided they direct their energy in the right direction. By Jigyasu Joshi
Even his droopy eyes and rugged looks didn’t stop girls from taking a photo with him. Such was the attraction of VJ-turned-actor Rannvijay Singh. In town for auditions of the adventure-reality show, Roadies, the participant turned anchor turned actor took the fan frenzy in his stride. For all his weariness, Rannvijay looked calm and composed. “I respect the affection they shower on me and I simply feel blessed about it,” he said.
He respects the adulation, having transformed from just another somebody into a celebrity courtesy a show his destiny seems tied to. “It comes as a shock to many when I tell them the reason why I wanted to win Roadies. I had participated for the sheer love of bikes and adventure and thought it would get me to the adrenaline club. However, a lot of people think that it is an easy ticket to fame. But believe me if that is the case then the fame is extremely short-lived,” he shared.
Being a youth icon, he credits his success to the show itself. “Roadies has given me all one can ask for. Fame, respect and money. Apart from this, the show also made my inside adventurer grow more wild,” he said. A part of the show from the beginning, Rannvijay believed that even after going on for so long, the show has tried to reach the expectations of the viewers. “We keep on making changes in the format of the show. We try to keep it adventures for both — contestants and viewers. Also, in the beginning of every season we think that this time people might have lost interest in the show and won’t be showing up. Contrary to that, there are always more people coming in for auditions. This does boost our morale,” he said.
From television to films, Rannvijay has come a long way. Quizzing him on where does his heart lie and he readily chipped in, “When on TV, I don’t act as I am all by myself here. I have earned a cool and respectable space on the small screen. Whereas in films, I just play a character. It is difficult to choose between the two. I do try to strike a balance between them. “Films are something I am extremely passionate about. It really gives me an opportunity to meet great directors and actors. And working with them is indeed an enriching experience,” added the VJ-turned-actor.
The self-made man, Rannvijay Singh, wanted to join the Indian army. “Six generations of my family members have actively served the Indian army. I wanted to do the same. But when I showed interest in participating in Roadies, my parents didn’t step back. They supported my decision and rest is what you see today,” he said.
Talking about his future projects, he said, “Right now, my whole energy is focused on the show. There are auditions lined up and I’m just concentrating on that.”
For giving a message to the youth, Rannvijay said, “Youth of the country is always charged up. All they need is to guide that energy in the proper direction. As they have to bear the responsibility of this country on their shoulders.” He signed off after saying that, and went into the room for his search of the next ultimate roadie.