Cut The Clap
Hiten Tejwani<\b>
TV actor
I think one of the primary reasons why the film fraternity is wary of approaching television actors is that we are working in daily soaps on a regular basis. Considering our erratic schedules, there is a vague assumption that we won't be able to devote the time required for a film. This scepticism will disappear one we establish a proper channel of communication. We are professionals too, and if we give our commitment, we will definitely keep it.
Also, from whatever stories I've heard from my co-actors and from my own experiences, there's a prevalent perception that TV entails over-exposure. Because actors are seen on television almost every day, they are not really considered a viable option for a leading man in a Hindi film. Even if they do, they will ask you to take a big break between your TV and film career. This demarcation is strangely puzzling. Thankfully, the scene is changing slowly. Going by the way Sushant Singh Rajput made a start in Bollywood after a successful stint in Pavitra Rishta, the signs of change are evident. There are also TV actors such as Ayushmann Khurrana, Yami Gautam, Rajeev Khandelwal, and not to forget, Ram Kapoor and Ronit Roy who are getting important roles.
Now even if some actors make the cut, there's a huge difference in the way media differentiates between film and TV actors. Sharad Kelkar and Barkha Bisht Sengupta have done a great job in Goliyon Ki Rasleela Ram-Leela but I haven't seen any mention of them in print or TV news. But I am quite confident that their fans are well aware of their presence in the film and they can recognise the star from watching them in their respective soaps. However, I'm positive of things changing and soon we will look at actors based on their talent and performance and not the medium in which they perform.
