Punjabi singer-actor Harish Verma believes social media has become the need of the hour

Harish Verma is a talented singer and artiste. As many as 15 films and five albums in his kitty, he rocked Pollywood with his performances in Yaar Annmulle, RSVP and Golak Bugni Bank Te Batua. He shares excerpts from his journey so far.

How has the pandemic impacted the entertainment industry?

Well not only the entertainment industry, it has impacted everything! As the cases of Covid-19 have been increasing each day, now the television and music industry has stopped working again. This second wave is frightening for all of us.

Given the current scenario, how are you staying fit at home?

I start my day with some exercise and keep an eye on my diet.

Theatre, Punjabi films, music albums and television shows. What do you enjoy the most?

I have enjoyed every field equally!

There is intense competition in the industry. How do you deal with it?

As far as the competition is concerned, I am competing with myself only!

Do you believe that actors have to constantly promote themselves through social media and other means in order to survive?

Yes, I agree social media has captured our lives now. One needs to be frequently seen and active almost all the time on social media. It has become the need of the hour. But, honestly, I am not very good at it.

What in a script encourages you to take up a role?

Since I am from a theatre background,script has always been the most important factor for me and my character needs to have something substantial to do in it.

What kind of films would you like to experiment with in your career?

I wish to do something meaningful!

How important is Pollywood to you?

Pollywood is very important for me. It has given me a lifetime name - JattTinka!

Which Punjabi film is very close to your heart?

Yaar Annmulle, RSVP and Golak Bugni Bank Te Batua are all close to my heart.

Who do you think are your friends from the Punjabi film industry?

Every artiste that I have worked with!

How do you define yourself?

An optimist, cinema-lover and a traveller! — Dharam Pal