‘Writing helps me a lot’

What are your views on daily soaps versus finite series?   

I always prefer finite series because there’s always a story line. There is a bound script and you also know the way your character is moving. Like when I worked with Yash Raj in 2009, they only shot 26 episodes in 200 days and it was one of the most beautiful experiences. 

What do you think of current television scenario?

People have stopped paying attention to the story. They have stopped paying attention to the way it’s going to be created because I think everyone is churning out as many episodes as they can.

We hear actors lose patience because of hectic deadlines of shows. What would you say?

That’s actually true because daily soaps are predominantly again a quantitative medium. So, what happens is that you have to constantly work more than 12 hours at times, or even 15 hours a day. 

Many TV soaps sets are located far off from Mumbai and travelling takes a toll; right?

I avoid taking up shows at Naigaon. It does take a lot of time and toll on your health because you’re traveling almost one-and-a-half hour one way and sometimes you really get stuck. I definitely try to take up shows that are shot in Mumbai Filmcity or Madh.

If not an actor what you would have been and why?

I think probably an educationist or maybe a sportsman; the latter because I was a professional cricketer before turning an actor. Educationist, because of my initiative Share and Grow, I have realised that you learn when you teach.

How do you unwind?

My books help me a lot; writing helps me a lot and even watching films does wonders . If I get to meet someone who is interesting , my evening is made.