Iqbal khan Interview

I don't have EMIs to pay: Iqbal Khan

Iqbal Khan, who's back, tells Deepali Dhingra that his long breaks don't make him insecure

It's been a long time one saw you on television...
Yes, I usually go away for a long time. (smiles) For the past one-and-half-years or more, shows that have been doing well are usually the kind that emphasised a lot on social issues and shot in the interiors of the country. They were a good change from the regular kitchen politics but somehow, I didn't see myself fitting in.

And now you're back with a new show tentatively titled Sangini?
Yes, it's primarily a love story. The character I'm playing is in search of love. Drinking is his escape route. But the interesting part is that he's usually a regular guy but when he starts drinking, he becomes a lot of fun. He's capable of saying anything to anyone at that time. At the same time, the pain inside him doesn't go away.

The last time you were not happy with your role in Choona Hai Aasmaan, you had quit the show. 'If I'm promised a big car and I'm given a small one, I won't drive it!' is what you had said...
And I still stick to that. It's for life. If something is promised to you, then it should be delivered.

But what if there are some twists and turns required for the TRPs?
Fair enough! If you give me certain twists and turns that are required for boosting TRPs and they are justified, then I'm all for them. But you can't completely change the genre of the show! You cannot be making a show on the Air Force and change it into a breezy love story.

Do you think you're fussy?
I don't think I'm fussy at all! My only problem is that there should not be a 180 degrees change in content.

You said earlier that you keep going away from TV for long periods. What about insecurity?
I never get insecure! Mujhe Allah mein mukammal imaan hai. I'm thankful to God that I'm offered roles that I want to do. Secondly, I have a very supportive wife. And thirdly, I don't have EMIs to pay! (smiles)

You tried your luck at Bollywood but it didn't really work...
I have two flop films behind me. Failure is very important, but I don't want to face it anymore. About Bollywood, yes I would love to do films if something good comes my way.

Would you describe yourself as ambitious?
Like crazy! I can work 30 hours a day. Whatever work you have, might not be hundred per cent of your choice, but it's about putting your hundred per cent in it. God loves the smell of hard work.

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