It's always interesting exploring something that has dimensions and layers to it.
I think when you're a new actor in Bollywood, it's about seizing the moment. If you can prove to the audience there is an emotional vulnerability to your character, regardless of it being black or gray, I think the audience will accept you in any role - be it romantic or action.
I believe short films are more organic. It's almost like doing theatre. It just takes few takes.
When you are doing a film about real people, you don't have a lot of manoeuvrability when it comes to how much you can add by way of imagination. You have to replicate what they were like. What you can add to it is your version of it.
I feel it has become increasingly competitive. There are some insane cut-offs to get into a lot of colleges.
There's so much information out there. There are written biographies of Gavaskar and Kapil Dev, there are interviews, and we have had the benefit of meeting these players. There's a physical and psychological aspect, and combining these two is what will help '83' connect with the millenials and cricket lovers.
I don't think there are any negative roles anymore. I think we can aptly put such characters under 'anti-hero' tag.
There is something very exciting when you're playing a villain. You're being a rebel within the story because you are breaking the norms, and also when it comes to the structure of what a conventional lead is supposed to be.
I greatly admire how the essence of Nitesh Tiwari's films resonate with you long after you've left the theatre.
I really believe quality over quantity and 'Mardaani' was really well-received. It got me critical acclaim and box-office success, both.
It is a matter of pride, and a lot of pressure to play the role of a legend like Sunil Gavaskar. He is India's first cricket superstar.
Derek, my character, in 'Chhichhore' is actually based on the director's real life senior in engineering college and I had no clue about it till he took me to Indian Institute of Technology Bombay.
I have always been extremely health conscious and I have never smoked and don't encourage the habit of smoking.
When you play an anti-hero, it is a task to make people empathise with your character.
As an actor, 'Chhichhore' has been one of the most creatively fulfilling projects and I thank my director Nitesh Tiwari for making me a part of his vision.
When an actor thinks he has arrived and become the best one, that's when your downfall starts. I will always strive to do better than in my last film.
There is something challenging in shooting something in just one day and there is freedom knowing there is going to be no censorship.
In 'Chhichhore,' I play the most layered and fun character.
My father was in the Air Force, so I travelled all over India. I was born in Delhi.
My mother worked for Confederation of Indian Industry, and Aptech Computers.
