DB speaks abt next season of SVS

Being Gattu

Deven Bhojani talks about playing Gattu, and the next season of his directorial venture Saarabhai v/s Saarabhai

Reena Thapar Kapoor

Looks can really be deceptive at times. Now if you thought that the chubby Gattu from Baa Bahoo Aur Baby can only fool around with kids, you are completely mistaken. For the man knows serious business. Deven Bhojani who kick-started his career as an effeminate man in Tara and cute and funny servant in Dekh Bhai Dekh feels elated about his recent feats. Baa Bahoo Aur Baby completed a year on television. Looking back at his careergraph, he says, "I have been doing television since 1986, but it is only now, that I am being applauded for my role in Baa Bahoo Aur Baby." The actor recalls the day when he was briefed about the character by director Aatish Kapadia. "I was excited about playing Gattu the minute I was given the narration. Aatish had explained me about his mental state. Although I tried referring to a lot of Hollywood films, they didn't much help. It was then I went to a home for mentally challenged and the handicapped children, which helped me to a great extent. I wanted to learn their body language, mannerisms and their approach towards life. Those children were my inspiration and Gattu is just one of them. Although I must admit that it took me a few weeks to get into the skin of the character," he further adds. Deven admits that directing Saarabhai v/s Saarabhai has added yet another feather in his cap. "Undoubtedly, I love acting but direction gives me a different kind of a satisfaction. As an actor I'm only bothered about my character but as a director I have to make sure that all the other characters are on the right track," he adds.

When quizzed about his association with the Hats Off Productions, and whether he works exclusively for the production house, Deven quips, "I don't belong to any camp. In fact, I don't function that way. I'm an actor and am free to work with anybody I feel like." Though Deven doesn't deny, that his friendship with his producers Aatish and JD Majethia has resulted into the success of their shows.

And does he mind working in K-series that assure great TRPs? He replies, "Ekta Kapoor is a producer with a great vision. I don't mind working with her as I'm sure it will be worth it. But why just Ekta alone? Every working equation is based on mutual respect and the desire to work with each other. Isn't it? As of now my plate is full. I'm busy with Naya Office Office on Star One, Baa Bahoo Aur Baby on Star Plus and not to forget my directorial venture Saarabhai v/s Saarabhai, which is going to be back on Star One sometime next month."