Romiit Raaj: I always wanted to be an actor

Actor Romiit Raaj says that he had always planned to enter showbiz. He says that watching his dad enjoy films is what motivated him to enter the industry.

“I always wanted to be an actor and act in front of the camera. When I saw Amitabh Bachchan and Shammi Kapoor films with my father, I saw how happy he was watching them. I also felt I wanted to entertain the audience and bring a smile to their faces. That's exactly what's happening now when strangers walk up to me and talk so warmly and respectfully about my acting. I realised I wanted to be an actor at the age of 10. As a child, I even learned horse riding and martial arts so that I could do this on screen,” he says.

The actor adds that he has never felt that being part of showbiz is not a stable career option. “I never thought that acting is an uncertain career. I always believed that a good actor who is well-behaved and honest to his craft will never sit at home. Touchwood, I am living my dream, facing the camera for the past 21 years, and I am more excited to do more television, web series, and films. My parents felt that I would do very well in the entertainment industry, and they encouraged me every time. I miss my parents and always recollect their teachings,” he says.

Talking about his journey, he says,” With God's blessings, I signed Shakalaka Boom Boom for Star Plus a few months after my auditions. I was loved as Karan, and wherever I went in India, people recognised me. I have worked hard always and even skipped lunches to go for 5 to 7 auditions a day. I personally circulated my pictures in every production house in Mumbai and made sure I met all the casting directors.”

He adds, “When I have work, I am fully committed to my TV show, web series, or film. I do a lot of prep work, make notes for my character, and start living the role. My full focus is on the project I am doing. When I have no work, I make sure I take a holiday with my family, visit my home in Kolkata, and spend time with my loved ones. I learn a new sport, improve my work skills, and watch more cinema.”

Ask him what he would like to advise budding actors, and he says, “My advice to young people out there is to work hard. Don't get carried away by doing just one TV show as a lead. You will be forgotten if you are not sincere, punctual, and not working on the next project. Don't ever think of giving up in life. Ups and downs will always come and go. Stay strong and have a balanced mind.”

He adds, “With a population of 1.3 billion in our country, there is obviously a struggle for everything. Be passionate and committed to the medium. Don't get affected by failure; just get up and face the struggles. Fight the battles, and you shall win the war.”