Says Sushant Singh, who returns to television with Virrudh after six years
He shot into the limelight with the Veerappan-inspired role of Durga Narayan Choudhary in Ram Gopal Varma's Jungle. Be it the fiery freedom fighter Sukhdev in The Legend of Bhagat Singh, the sharp gang leader Gajraj Singh in Sehar or the happy-go-lucky Dr Allan in the Sony medical drama Dhadkan, Sushant Singh has constantly given laudable performances.
Now, the actor is making a comeback on the small screen after a hiatus of six years. Read on as he discusses his new show Virrudh, his future projects and his angst against filmmakers.
Despite a great performance in Dhadkan, you stayed away from TV.
Offers kept coming in post Dhadkan, but nothing excited me. I don't even watch these soaps so I can't think of being a part of them. Nevertheless, I didn't want to quit films for television.
So how did Viruddh happen?
Smriti (Iraani) had earlier approached me for Thodi Si Zameen Thoda Sa Aasman (Star Plus). When I heard the narration, it seemed like a different show, but then things didn't work out with the production house.
Later on, she approached me for Viruddh. The concept seemed interesting, and unlike other serials it required me to devote just eight to 10 days. Everything fell into place and I was onboard.
What are the changes you've see on TV in the last six years?
Pressure has increased and the competition is fierce. However, the attention span of viewers has definitely reduced.
Tell us about Viruddh.
I play an investigative journalist who is also called Sushant. He is an honest and transparent person who believes in bringing out the truth.
Working with thorough performers like Vikram Gokhale, Smriti Iraani, Achint Kaur and Ashwini Kalsekar is a delight. Unlike most primetime shows, Viruddh gives male artistes tremendous scope to perform.
What's happening on the film front?
This is going to be the busiest year for me. The year started with Red, which unfortunately didn't do well. Mukhbir, Sholay, Showbiz, Lahore and Laaga Chunri Mein Daag will soon follow.
Despite great performances, you still haven't got that big break.
I've stopped looking for that. I am 35 and one doesn't become a hero at this age. I want roles where I can perform and not just stand next to the hero. It may sound offensive, but I think most filmmakers today lack imagination.
Barring a few, the majority are scared to think beyond conventional choices. Maybe they don't have confidence in themselves and have to depend on a star's box- office status to decide the fate of their projects.
Does Sholay fit that bill, considering Sambha didn't have much to do in the original?
Sambha has a lot to do in Ramu's version. By the time the climax comes, you will realise that he really mattered to Gabbar Singh's gang!
Your most satisfying role till date?
Sukhdev in The Legend Of Bhagat Singh has been the most satisfactory. Even though it wasn't the lead role, it gave me scope to display a wide range of emotions.
What about family life?
I am happily married and my personal life is quite simple. My wife Molina is a Kathak dancer and we have a three-year-old daughter named Kuhu.
Finally, your expectations from Viruddh?
I really want this show to work. It has the potential to break the mould in the prime-time slot. After a long time, male viewers will have something worthwhile to look forward to. |