Shiva Shukla is shooting in Lucknow for Operation Kand. He talks about his work…

How did acting happen to you?

I have been acting in plays since my school days. After clearing intermediate, I joined professional theatre with the hope of realising my childhood dream.

What challenges have you faced in establishing yourself as an actor?

Initially, I started with mimicry. From my hometown, I first travelled to Kanpur and then to Lucknow, followed by Delhi and finally I reached Mumbai. My plans got a jolt when my father passed away. It wasn’t easy overcoming the loss but I had to come to terms with the reality of my situation.

How did theatre and NSD training help?

Theatre and NSD training gave me confidence and self-belief. Whatever I am today, it can be attributed to the exposure I gained while doing theatre.

Your short film Sorry Mom dealt with drug addiction. What motivated you to make a film on this?

Drug addiction is a serious issue and it affects the youth. I wanted to spread awareness about the dangers of drug addiction. So, I thought of making Sorry Mom.

How excited are you to work with Hiten Tejwani, Rashmi Desai and others in Operation Kand?

As an actor, I feel it’s important to constantly learn. When you are on the sets you can learn so much just by observing your co-actors. I think it would be a great learning experience to work with the likes of Hiten Tejwani, Rashmi Desai and others in Operation Kand.

What is your role in Sitapur City of Gangster Season 2?

All I can tell you right now is that Sitapur Season 2 will be more fun than the earlier season. The story is based on the people and politicians of Uttar Pradesh. My character will get more powerful than before. I will be starring alongside Anil Rastogi, Ravi Sudha, Aprna, Varun Joshi, Manoj Bakshi and Lokesh Mittal.

Besides the show, any movie in the pipeline?

I am doing a film called Cypher, which will be directed by Sagar Pathak. It is also going to be announced soon. Hopefully I will be able to share more details with you very soon.

Who is your inspiration?

My greatest inspiration has been my parents and my mentors. Whatever I am today, it’s because of them. I am also grateful to my co-actors who have constantly inspired me to do better.