Returning of the written off #8*invited only* - Page 21

Siddharth Shukla, who has enthralled all the Balika Vadhu fans with his effective portrayal of Shiv on the show, is all set to try his hands on dance reality show. The actor speaks to us about Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, his rehearsals and how he will try to maintain balance between daily and reality show.

How does it feel to be a part of Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa?
I am very happy to be part of such competition. I am a trained non dancer. All this is very new for me. It's interesting and I love to dance, but I cannot dance.

Any Bollywood actor, who has influenced you?
There are so many phenomenal dancers in Bollywood. However, I don't want to demean them by saying I am influenced by anyone. There are lot of people whom I love watching. My current favorite isRanbir Kapoor and love the way he dances.

How do you manage your schedule between daily soap and dance show?
It's very tough to manage reality shows and shooting for daily soaps. I have no complains. I sleep for four hours. Rehearsals are going on great, but tough. It's like do or die and there is lot to put in. At times I lack so want to practice and give my best.

Who is your favorite judge on the show?
All three are my favorite judges. I am being honest as I can't choose between Madhuri Dixit,Karan Johar and Remo.

Which is your favorite form of dancing?
I don't know much about forms of dancing so I am trying to do research on many things. I want to experiment all kind of dance and I am very greedy and don't like to be content.

Tell us something about your choreographer Sonia?
She is a task master. I needed someone like that. She is so passionate about dancing. For me to move my body is tough but she puts in step into that. She wants me to rehearse completely.

What is more challenging drama or dance?
When I was modeling and got into acting I thought the toughest thing is acting, but now I have learnt to do. So, I want to learn to dance as I do more rehearsals.

Who is your toughest competitor?
I, myself as others are way high. Whoever is the worst on the show is my competition. Anyone who comes to a competition comes to win. I am not aiming for trophy as every week I want to get better. I have seen all seasons of Jhalak but in parts.

You are claiming to be the worst dancer on the show. Were you hesitant before saying yes and what exactly prompted you to take a decision?
Yes, I was very hesitant and I took time to say yes. I love dancing and I enjoy it. I always wanted to learn dance and a platform like Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa is the best to learn and enjoy. I don't think I would have got another opportunity like this.

Reality shows comes with lot of appreciation and criticism. How are you going to deal with it?
I think an actor's life is such. Once you are in scrutiny of media and people I think things like that will happen. I take negative comments which I want. I don't let it bother me and if I know I did well, I believe in it.

You are TV's popular face. Do you think that will help you get votes?
I don't know how the voting works as it's my first show. If it helps then I need it.

In Balika Vadhu you play Shiv and how much do you believe in that character?
I totally relate to it. He is a flawless man. There is so much that I learn from him. The role just makes me a better man.