TOI: Gujarat is close to my heart-Neil

GUJARAT IS CLOSE TO MY HEART

Says telly actor Neil Bhatt in an interview with AT

Shruti Jambhekar


For someone who studied law and then went on to become a full time actor on television,Gujarati actor Neil Bhatts journey on the small screen has been an interesting one.Featuring on the prime time show Gulaal where his character falls in love with an older woman,Neil is receiving good reviews for his work.With a simple guy-next-door looks,Neil comes across as someone who is determined to make it in the world of television.

WHY GULAAL

Im playing the role of Kesar who was married to Gulaal,his sister-in-law when he was a kid because of old age customs.I play the grown-up Kesar.He is an adamant guy and can go to any extent to make his wishes come true.Having stayed in the city for ten years,Kesar returns to his village to be back with his family and he is curious to understand reasons behind certain rituals and traditions.I think the character in Gulaal is the best role I have received so far.Im thoroughly enjoying it.And it is good to be in a show set in a rural background because majority of the Indian masses reside in small towns and rural areas.

JOURNEY SO FAR

It was always a passion to become an actor.I participated in Boogie Woogie,did some modelling campaigns and gave around 300 auditions for films as well as serials.It was finally with Arsalaan that I got my first break in the year 2008.The viewers loved me in the role of Abhi in 12/24 Karol Baug.I want to make sure that I am able to do a variety of roles.Being typecast in the same genre of roles would never be challenging.

REALITY BITES

Im a trained dancer and I really look forward to be a part of a dance-based reality show.I want to showcase my dancing skills someday.But as of now I havent really thought about reality shows.

I,ME,MYSELF

I am an absolute family and friends person.I enjoy working out,dancing,watching movies and buying new gadgets.I cannot resist trying out new gadgets in the market and need to be updated about them.I love Gujarati and Rajasthani food.

SINGLE AND FANCYFREE

Im single and I feel I am too young to get into a relationship.I need to focus on my career.

GUJARAT CONNECT

I was born in Vadodara and my relatives stay there and in Ahmedabad.I have spent many summer vacations in Gujarat.I get a feeling of being at home when I am in Gujarat.My first shooting location was at Halol near Vadodara,so I bond with the state very well.Gujarat will always be close to my heart.