I am going to be choosy: ARMAAN KOHLI

Armaan Kohli is looking forward to returning to the silver screen with Sooraj Barjatya's Diwali release, Prem Ratan Dhan Payo (PRDP).

The actor will make a comeback after 12 years. He made his Bollywood debut with Virodhi (1992) and was last seen in LOC: Kargil (2003). After appearing on a reality show in 2013, he bagged this big-ticket film. Here, Armaan talks about his future, working with Salman Khan, and more.

How excited are you about the film?

I am on top of the world, and very excited. I couldn't have asked for anything better than sharing screen space with Salman Khan, and being part of a Sooraj Barjatya film. There is a lot of buzz around the film. I am looking forward to the response to my character. I've enjoyed playing the role. I am returning to films after a long break.

How was the experience of working with Salman?

I felt comfortable with Salman bhai. It didn't feel like I was working with a superstar. He is dedicated to his projects, and puts in a lot of hard work in each film. Today's actors need to learn that [from him].

Now that you are back in Bollywood, what else are you working on?

I have signed a two-film deal with producer Sajid Nadiadwala. One of them should start by the end of January or February. I am waiting for PRDP to release; an announcement for my home production will follow. I want to act for another five years, and then direct. So, I am going to be choosy.

You play a villain in your upcoming film. Tell us about your role.

I play Chirag, who is a 'heroic villain'. He isn't the typical villain, who gets whacked and thrown around in a film. He wants everything for himself, and doesn't want to share anything. He is classy and cool, which is why I loved playing him. He is one of the best characters I have ever played. Playing a negative role was fine with me, as I am an actor. I look at the role, nothing else.

How was it working with director Sooraj Barjatya?

He is an institution in himself. Soorajji is beyond brilliant. There is no other director like him. I pray I get to be part of all his films. He didn't even audition me; he just heard my voice, looked at me, and signed me. He is the perfect taskmaster, and knows exactly what he wants. All directors should learn from him. He knows his work inside out. He can narrate the whole film to you with dialogues, a feat that no other director can accomplish. Working with Salman bhai and Soorajji was such a heady combination. They create insane magic. God has been really kind to me.