You are a fresh face. Tell us about your background.
I haven’t been an actor, VJ or a model. I had no presence on TV either. So, my name is unheard of. I shot for a couple of TV commercials recently (one for Mahindra automobiles) and also a film which, I think, might get stashed away for production reasons.
Although, this is for TV, I am not really acting here either, since it is a reality show. But it will be my debut on the telly. I used to be an assistant director for TV commercials so have always been behind the camera. I was always told by my directors that I should be in front of the camera, so here I am.
How did Beg Borrow and Steal happenIJ
I have known Kevin and Anshuman for a while. Anshuman is a friend’s friend. When the two of them thought of me for this show, they didn’t know that the other one knew me. When they figured this out, they came to me and I said yes then and there. I had seen this show before. I am excited to be a part of it.
Has it been toughIJ
It has been really tough but enjoyable. There have been a lot of physical activities involved which has drained me out. I have worked out in the past and I used to be a professional swimmer, so fitness has always been my thing. But, the amount of physical stress I have to go through during these tasks is exhausting, moreso because of the heat. But, I must thank the production team for bringing me to all these places. I don't think I would have ever come here and mingled with the locals otherwise.
Do you like travelling around IndiaIJ
I love travelling. India has so many places to see that one can spend a life-time travelling here and yet not see everything. In fact, I rejected a few of commercials because I wanted to be in this show and I knew this would involve a lot of travelling. My idea of travelling is that I shouldn’t know what is coming next and just travel like a free spirit.
You have to stay with locals and hitch rides from strangers. Does that daunt youIJ
I was a little apprehensive initially about this. The first few times, it was really awkward and uncomfortable to ask strangers if I could spend the night at their place. I didn’t want to send a wrong signal. So, I have to be extremely careful about who I am approaching.
What about safety issuesIJ
Someone from the production team is always present with me, irrespective of where I am. Also, while I am hitch-hiking, the production team is always behind me, ensuring that I reach my destination safely. Also, during the tasks, all safety and security measures are taken before I turn up for shooting.