I didn't expect such response: Karan Pate

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OVERWHELMED: Karan Patel admits that he did not expect such response in such a short time (Agencies Photo)

In a span of just a month this star of the Indian television has managed to capture viewers' heart through intense portrayal of the character of a rock star 'Robbie Sabharwal', in the prime time TV serial 'Kasturi'. His female fans are specially going gaga over the hot looks of this Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Akhtar look-alike. In an exclusive interview Karan Patel admits that he did not expect such a response in such a short time. Excerpts from the interview:

Q: You were not the original choice for the role of Robbie in Kasturi, then how did you land in grabbing that role?

A: I do not know who was shortlisted to play Robbie Sabharwal before I was offered. When Ekta of Balaji Telefilms called and narrated the story, I liked it accepted. It's a fantastic role.

Q: You said that you would get the audience glued to the show every night. What made you so confident even when the serial had barely taken off?

A: Every character is different from the other. My character is well-sketched. So, I was very sure the audience would be hooked on to the show.

Q: Your female fans are going crazy about you. To them, everything you do is so likeable. They even like you wearing pink. They love your smile, think you are hot and adore your dimpled smile. What you have to say to them?

A: Just continue to love me. I never expected to get this sort of response in such a short time. I thought it would take time to make place in the viewers' hearts. I am extremely happy.

Q: Tell us a bit more about yourself and how did you become an actor?

A: I am from Mumbai. I studied at the Utpal Sanghvi School at Juhu and then went to the Mithibai College. I come from a business family and I am the only son. I always wanted to be an actor so I began to prepare myself for a career in acting. I did a course at Kishore Namit Kapoor's acting school. I was with Shiamak Davar's dance school and also did theatre with Nadira Babbar.

Q: You have been in the TV industry since last three years, doing cameos in serials like Kavvyanjali and Karam Apna Apna . Why did you take small roles at the initial stage of your career?

A: While doing cameos I was learning the ropes (of acting). I understand that people have aspirations and everyone wants to play the lead role. But, I do believe that one must climb the ladder from the first step.

Q: You play a lover-boy in Kasturi . Is there anyone special in your life as well?

A: Unfortunately at this moment there is no one.

Q: A lot of girls would like to know which type of girl you want. Would she be someone like your Kasturi?

A: No, not like Kasturi, but someone simple and cute - like Jennifer Aniston!

Q: Do you identify with your small screen character Robbie Sabharwal?

A: Yes, I relate to him quite a lot. We are both good people and would go all out to stand by anyone we love. No one can force us into doing anything against our will.

Q: Apart from acting, how involved are you in the serial?

A: I have contributed to the character's styling of clothes and looks.

Q: Viewers want to know if your character will turn negative in the serial.

A: I don't know about that. You will have to wait and watch.

Q: This serial is about love and romance. Viewers want to see some more intimacy between you and Kasturi in the serial. Is it going to happen?

A: You will have to ask the writers about this. Can't reveal anything now.