Kushaal Punjabi, who was last seen in Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, will be playing Dr Veer in Zindagi Wins on Bindass. SHAlINI SAKSENA chats him up
How did the role come to youIJ
To be very honest, I was not following the show. But I knew that the channel — Bindass — was doing well and has a niche viewership. So when I was approached for the role for Zindagi Wins and was told about the character that I would be playing I said yes. For me what is important is the role that I am being offered. I don’t subscribe to saas-bahu serials. But having said that, they are a major contributor to the entertainment segment in the industry. I appreciate the kind of work that so many production houses are doing in coming out with such shows. It is just that I don’t see myself in this kind of drama shows.
Is that why you have done eight reality shows till dateIJ
In a way yes. When one does a reality show, one can be what you are. You can show to the world the real you. People know you by your given name instead of the character you play. So that is good in many ways. But one has to be careful as well. Because it is a reality show, one has to see how much of yourself one wants to show to the people. For example, if I am bad tempered in real life, do I want the world to know itIJ In that sense, one has to be on guard.
Tell us about your role as Dr Veer in the showIJ
I play an Army doctor. I find this combination rather interesting. I have never done this role before, so I am looking forward to see how his character develops. There is a mystery to him. Hence, the scriptwriters can play with his character — either make him totally negative or make it a grey character.
How was your first day on the setsIJ
It was great. All my co-stars are very good. They helped me catch up with what has happened in the show till date. It was fun to shoot with them. I am now looking forward to the viewers’ reaction to my character when it is introduced this week.
How does a dancer choreographer get into actingIJ Why not BollywoodIJ
It just sort of happened. I had always wanted to showcase my talent as a dancer which I was able to do last year. However, I had turned to modeling and from there my acting career took off, the latest movie being Crazy Cukkad Family. So I suppose my dancing has taken a backseat for now.
You said that you don’t subscribe to saas-bahu drama. WhyIJ
I just don’t see myself in the kind of roles these shows have to offer. I appreciate the work of the actors who are a part of these serials but I can’t do it. Just the other day, I got a call from a production house offering me the role. All I was told was that I would be the third brother. I turned it down despite the fact that it was a big banner and a popular channel.
My friends and relatives also said that if I have to act on television I should opt for serials that are being aired on popular channel or work with a big banner or a production house with a reputation. But for me, it is the role that matters.