Darshan Pandya, who plays Aditya Verma in Aap Ki Antara, was busy with theatre before bagging the role that he had initially rejected.
"A friend told me about the auditions and I went for it. They wanted a cute person for this role. They told me it was a father's role so I said no at first, but when they explained the character and situation, I said yes, though I was a little sceptical. The producer and director convinced me to give it a second thought and I did that."
What have you done before this?
"I was doing theatre. I was working with Prithvi, and have also acted in Gujarati plays. I have my own group, Bhartiya Vidya Bhavan, and we conduct one-act play competitions. I also dubbed for cartoons, commercials and movies."
Do you miss theatre?
I have not left theatre, but since I am so busy now I cannot do any plays. I do miss that group and the stage, but I'm getting a different experience here. My friends, who never really appreciated my work, are happy with my role and compliment me now."
What is your relationship with Zyanah Vastani?
She is a very cute kid. She's always running about everywhere and I enjoy her company. The most important thing is that she is very obedient. When we are doing a shot, she will listen to everything, finish her work and then do masti."
How did you prepare for the role?
"They took us to a school where we met autistic kids. I was completely clueless about autism. I purposely avoided meeting too many children as my character, Aditya, is shown to know very little on the subject, and I wanted to maintain that."
What response are you getting?
"It is unbelievable. We are tackling a very different subject and the experience has been very good till now. TRPs don't matter much, but the show is picking up slowly and steadily. Once, I was travelling on my bike wearing a helmet, and yet a couple recognised me. They told me they had a two-year-old daughter, who was a big fan of Antara's, and they asked me how she was and where she was. I felt good."
Tell us about your family?
"I have done a course in electronic and telecommunication. I live with my parents, sister and wife; they all are happy for me .My wife Shilpa is also an actress. She visits me on the sets sometimes, and has bonded well with Zyanah, even more than me. Whenever she comes, she spends hours with Zyanah; they play together and have loads of fun."