‘Soham is an absolute charmer’

Bhuvnesh Mam, who is playing the lead role of Soham in 9X's Dahej speaks to A.L Chougule about his serial, role, past experiences and future plans.

Q An MBA in marketing, what made you choose this profession?
Right from my college days I wanted to become an actor. However I come from a very well-educated family and they wanted me to complete my education before I ventured into acting.

Q How did you manage to get a break in Kahani Ghar Ghar Ki?
When Balaji production was conducting an audition for the new generation roles in the end of 2006, I happened to be in Delhi. I attended the audition and was selected to play the character of Ankit. But I did the role for about six months and then quit because I was not satisfied with the way my track went.

Q What was the problem with the role? Didn't you get enough exposure in the show?
The character didn't develop the way it should have. There was lot of difference between the narration I was given and the way the character developed. It was supposed to be an important character but the way the story shaped up, Ankit got lost in the crowd. I am thankful to Balaji for giving me an opportunity but it didn't work for me. I don't think I got a decent exposure either.

Q Being a newcomer, was it difficult for you to take a decision about quitting a popular show? Did Dahej come your way immediately?
It was bit difficult to decide initially but I had to take a call. But I was confident of getting another show. And thankfully, I got a call from BAG Films for a look test for Dahej and got selected to play Soham Mehta. I am really happy doing this show because it is my first lead role on television.

Q Tell us little bit more about Soham's character. How does he get entangled in a love triangle?
Soham is an absolute charmer and also a big prankster. He is very close to his mother and is a caring person who is ever ready to sacrifice his happiness for the sake of his loved ones. But I am not at liberty to speak about the love triangle and its effect on the three individuals. The show has just started and the real drama will take off soon.

Q Do you feel the pressure of playing the lead role in a daily?
Of course pressure is there because there is a lot of responsibility on my shoulder. But I am working with a lot of passion and putting in my best efforts. It's a big show with big star cast and great production values.

Q Since it is being telecast on a new channel, does it worry you that it will not get good eyeballs for some time at least?
No, it doesn't. 9X has had a grand launch and it is already getting decent ratings. It is a safe brand and is bound to make an impact sooner than later.

Q You don't have an acting background. How comfortable are you in front of the camera?
I had done little bit of theatre in my college days. But I can't deny that I am learning and Kahani... was the first lesson in acting. However now I am quite camera-friendly. Dahej is going to be a bigger and hopefully a better learning experience for me.

Q In real life, how much do you resemble with the character of Soham?
I am simple and down to earth and I believe in the saying that 'simplicity is beauty'. But unlike Soham, I am not a prankster and take time to mix with people. In fact, I am bit moody.

Q Do you feel homesick since you are living alone in Mumbai?
No, I don't. My family members keep visiting me and I have got a good bunch of friends here. Moreover when you are working for 12 to 14 hours every day, there is no time to feel homesick I guess.

Q When you get longer breaks between scenes, how do you while away your time?
Oh, we all sit together and talk. Breaks are always refreshing.

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