In a free-wheeling interview with CS, he opens up about work, competition and the benefits of being from a film background. Excerpts.
A great start
My journey has been good so far. I am glad that people have accepted me and I'm getting good work. I was shooting for Ali Abbas Zafar and Abhishek Varman's film simultaneously. Initially, it was a little tough switching between the two characters but then, you have to work hard. Being on a film set gives me a sense of solace and peace. So, I don't mind hectic schedules.
Outweighing the cons
My prior experience as an assistant director allows me to trust people on a film set easily because I know that they're doing their job to the best of their abilities. I just concentrate on my performance and don't worry about whether I'm looking good and other details. I am more aware about the role of every crew member and hence have greater faith in them. When you're from a film background, you are not overawed by stardom and are more confident about your deals, etc.
Plus, you get a certain amount of respect because of your father's reputation. The only thing you have to work on is to create your own name and niche. Of course, the nepotism factor is bandied about and it takes the credit away from your talent, which is a little unfair. However, all of this is a part of the process.
Casting coup
Working with Priyanka Chopra was a fabulous experience. I know her since a while, so we share a comfortable equation. As far as heroines are concerned, it is a director's prerogative on who suits the female part best. I'm glad to be paired with a different heroine in every film of mine. It brings about a sense of freshness.
Need my own niche
It is a good thing that there are so many young actors in the industry. Producers have more options to choose from for their films. There are more scripts written for younger heroes these days. As far as competition is concerned, I am way too young in the industry to feel insecure. I first need to establish some kind of standing for myself before I can worry about the others. I am just a year-and-a-half old in Bollywood, and this is not the time to look over my shoulders.
Film favourites
I am a total film buff and love watching all kinds of films. Eating good food and watching films is what I love to do on my days off. It's hard to pick favourites but I love Saif Ali Khan, Ranbir Kapoor, Hrithik Roshan, Salman Khan and Govinda.
