'I always choose strong characters'

Though he's been on the small screen since a long time, it was with Balaji's Kahiin Toh Hoga, where he played a convincing father to Aamna Shariff, that Chetan Panditgot noticed. With many ads and a few films to his credit, this theatre actor has also featured in shows namely, Chandrakanta, Aahat, Kya Hadsa Kya Haqekat, Kahiin Toh Milege and Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi.

Prashant Golecha meets up with Chetan who is currently associated with Maverick Production's Kulvaddhu where he plays Samar Rathod.

Why did you quit Kahin To Hoga?
I did KTH for one and a half years. With the progress of the story the spine of the character was lost so I bid adieu to the show.

Didn't you have any apprehensions of playing a father to Aamna when you're just 33?
No I had no apprehensions about playing older characters. I always choose strong characters, who have a say in the story. I am open to all sorts of roles. Many a times people are taken aback to find me looking so much younger in real life.

Has Balaji approached you post KTH?
Balaji kept offering me roles but somehow I couldn't give in because of commitments or some or the other reason. But if they come up with a strong character in any show I will surely grab it.

How did Kulvaddhu happen?
Maverick Productions called me and narrated the character of Samar Rathod. I liked it and here I am. As the plot unfolds, my role will have a variety of shades.

Do you think it is easy to get work on television?
It's very easy! There is a superfluity of channels, production houses and shows in this industry. But what is difficult is to get quality work! Very less people are inclined towards it.

How do you look back at your career?
In all, I have done more than fifty serials and a lot of films but I still feel I haven't got my due recognition. I have realized that everything in life has a right time.

Tell us about your family.
My wife, Kanupriya Pandit is from the theatre background. Her group is called Killol and their forte is children's theatre. I have two daughters Kavvya and Aatya.

Any passions other than acting?
It has to be music, singing, writing lyrics and poetry. I have given music to at least 25 plays.

http://www.tellychakkar.com/y2k7/jan/5jan/interview.php