Rahil loves Cat !

Software engineer finds hardcore fans

Saumya Bhatia
Bangalore boy Rahil Azam never had it so good. His cameo as Ashmit Malhotra in Yeh Meri Life Hai has certainly made him popular with the opposite sex. Speaking about his character Rahil says, "I am glad that my performance and character have been appreciated. It has been a long struggle for me, but I am happy that I made it on my own." Success has not come easy for 27-year-old Rahil, who came to Mumbai in 1999.

A software engineer for whom getting a degree was a must but, acting was where his heart was. He followed his heart and came to the city of dreams — Mumbai, where he joined an acting school for three months. He started with a few ads and even worked in a music video for late Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and another one for Roop Kumar Rathod. His first break, Ek Tukda Chaand Ka in 2001, got him interesting roles in Bhabhi, Kahiin Kissi Roz, Achanak, and Hatim.

"My parents have always supported me, especially my mother who means the world to me. She is my critic and advised me to sign the serial Hatim, which is a milestone in my career. In fact, for a long time I was not called Rahil but Hatim by many," he says. With Yeh Meri Life Hai, the actor has found an enviable female following. Upasna, a marketing executive, says, "The serial has become much more interesting since Ashmit has come into the picture. I see the serial just to watch him." Who is says this Sneha Gupta, a student says, "I used to call him the Hatim guy and now it is Ashmit Malhotra of Yeh Meri Life Hai. I think the latter name suits his personality more."

Rahil is now planning to venture into films. "I would like to direct a film someday. At present, if there is an interesting project I would love to be a part of it," he adds. When asked what does he think of love? Rahil says, "Where is love today? It is more of give and take in relationships. For me, love is respect." When asked if there is somebody special in his life, he quickly replies, "No I am not seeing anybody."

A big chicken freak, Rahil adds that he is lazy and easily trusts everybody. He loves to sink into the tunes of old Hindi film songs, the favourite being, Dekh ke tujhko dil dola hai from Amar Akbar Anthony. Dilip Kumar is his favourite actor and Parveen Babi is the most sensuous woman. A cool Libran, he hates being a diplomat and like people who are not artificial. He adores his two Persian cats and loves horse riding back home in Bangalore.

"I like to do one project at one time. I believe in God, I believe in karma, I just do my work and leave the rest to destiny," Rahil signs off on a philosophical note.