'We don't know our own expiry..': Ishaan Dhawan on whether Doree 2 will succeed or end up like other sequels

Ishaan Dhawan, who plays Maan Thakur in Colors' show Doree 2, has been receiving immense love from the audience for his impeccable comic timing and gripping performance. In an exclusive conversation, he shared insights on the audience's response, his preparation for the role, and his approach to on-screen chemistry.

People are loving your character, Maan—his comic timing, drama, and everything. What kind of reactions are you receiving from the audience?

The audience's reactions can be seen in the comments. But I feel there is still a lot to be open. The shop has just been finalised; I still have to stock it with products, meaning there's a lot more to explore with Maan. I know people are enjoying the character, but many more exciting things are yet to come.

The time and effort I've put into shaping Maan's strong personality will be truly reflected in the episodes that are yet to be aired. So I'm waiting for those episodes as I'll get to see how the audience reacts in the upcoming episodes.

How did you prepare to play Maan? He is a tough yet emotional character with a cynical past.

The first thing I focused on was making sure I didn't look like my old self. I wanted to understand the demands of the character. As I said earlier, I am waiting for the new episodes to air because that's when I can truly see if my vision for Maan has translated well on screen. And I know it will look even better because wahi Maan hain. What has been shown from the beginning until the ninth episode was more of an experimental phase—figuring out how Maan would appear on screen and how he would react in different situations.

In the ninth episode, where Maan is seen saving Doree's father or engaging in playful banter with Doree, the audience responds positively to his character.

Moving forward, I feel Maan will have a more calculated grip on his personality.

Since I had never been part of a women-centric show before, I did wonder if I would get enough scope to perform, especially since the show's title is also the character's name. But when I heard the script, I felt satisfied

- Ishaan Dhwan

In Dhruv Tara, people loved your chemistry with Rhea. Now, your chemistry with Priyanshi is building up. As an actor, do you feel any pressure to develop strong on-screen chemistry with a new co-star?

Honestly, I have never looked at it that way. I work for the camera, and I focus on my character. It's important for the producer and the channel.

When you force it, it starts to look fake. The best approach is to remain professional and stay true to the character. Trying too hard to create chemistry is pointless. Some people try to showcase their bond for public attention, but deep down, they don't even feel it. Instead of forcing it, I prefer to go with the flow and focus on my job. It's always better to go with the flow, do your job sincerely, and let things unfold naturally. Chemistry is the responsibility of the people our responsibility is to deliver the script well.

Doree 2 is a sequel, and often, sequels struggle to gain the same love as the original. Did this thought cross your mind before signing up for the show? Do you think Doree 2 will have a different outcome?

When I signed Doree, my main concern was whether it would be more than just another women-centric show. I was eager to be a part of it, and since I am passionate about my work, I wanted to know whether the story was balanced or focused more on the hero and heroine. At first, the narrative centered around Baba and Doree, and I hoped for a well-balanced storyline. Since I had never been part of a women-centric show before, I did wonder if I would get enough scope to perform, especially since the show's title is also the character's name. But when I heard the script, I felt satisfied. I surrendered to God and trusted the process.

Numbers and ratings are not in my control. Every show comes with its own fate, and it is up to the audience to decide. We don't even know our own expiry date, so thinking about when a show will end is pointless. Our job is to give our best, and it is the audience who ultimately decides the show's destiny.