Actor Iqbal Khan talks about his likes, dislikes a

Iqbal Khan has a problem doing the regular saas-bahu family dramas with lots of tear shedding etc. That is exactly why he chose a paranormal show called Sambhav Kya on 9X as his anchoring debut. We caught up with this reclusive actor and talked about his new show and life in general. Read on...

What attracted you to Sambhav Kya?

I've always liked doing different stuff. The anchor in the show couldn't have been just another one showing his front teeth. He needed to be serious. He needs to say little but talks sense.

Do you believe in the supernatural yourself ?

There was a time when I did not believe in miracles. But now I know that sometimes things do happen which can't be explained. See, let's put it like this, there are facts and there are things which can't be verified and you never know what will happen tomorrow. While doing the show, I was surprised to know that such incidents do happen.

Will you ever anchor a normal show ?

Although I never say never, I try to make it a point to avoid doing anything basic.

Your Zee TV show Waaris is not doing very well...

Yes, but you have to understand that the 11 pm slot is not a very high value slot. So taking that in account, a rating of 1.7-1.8 is quite good, right!

After your rock star image in your debut show Kaisa Yeh Pyaar Hai, you are doing a very deglam role in Waaris. Will you ever go back to doing a youth show?

Why not, if it's attractive enough. I would not mind doing a mytho either but wearing the mukut would be taxing (laughs).

The promos of Sambhav Kya shows you as a dapper host.

The creatives have designed this look. And I am happy. Honestly speaking, I am not much of a fashion guy. I just go for plain jeans and shirt look.

You continue to shy away from reality shows?

I don't like anybody intruding into my private space, period. Plus I am not comfortable asking for votes either.

You have a tendency to leave your shows toward the end. Kaisa Ye Pyar Hai and Choona Hai Aasman for example...

It's not my fault if you deviate from the original script. I am openly saying that if Smriti Irani does the same I will walk out of Waaris as well. You can't take me for a ride.

But don't you think that you should be a bit more flexible, given that ratings dominate everything ?

No. I have never understood the concept of TRPs. How can you have a few hundred meters for such a huge population?

You will never do Saas Bahu sagas?

Whatever I have done so far has been different. When I was doing Kaisa Ye Pyar Hai it was not your regular family drama. Same was the case with Karam. Choona Hai and Waaris are again not your conventional tearjerkers.

Would you be interested in developing six-pack abs?

No I'd rather have a lean mannequin frame. It's important to carry off your clothes well.

If you had an option to choose a female host for Sambhav Kya who would you opt for ?

Salma Hayek or Bipasha Basu. The latter fits the bill of the show perfectly.

What's your take on current TV content ?

The biggest problem these days is that nobody has the b***s to think out of the box. I sincerely believe that if you make something interesting it will have its audience. Though some new shows are interesting despite being saas-bahu. The actors work for a change, and not the camera.

What else is there for you in the pipeline?

No way. I have overworked myself earlier. Not anymore. Waaris takes up most of my time. And luckily Sambhav Kya uses only a few days of my time, so it's fine.