OM--'This is no place for nice people'

I didn't throw tantrums or make unreasonable demands. I just did my work quietly. I would get depressed when I would hear tales about junior actors getting paid double the amount I was for half the time I'd put in. I've never been able to be a star — Kiran Karmarkar

Why aren't you doing any other show apart from Thodi Si Zameen?

I did Saathi Re a while back but left on a mutual agreement.

I couldn't play a father to those young girls anymore.

I was feeling like I was cheating my audience, so I decided to drop out.

As for Thodi Si Zameen, the show is one of the best projects I've been associated with. We have a terrific cast and the people on the production side are very co-operative.

I am looking out for good work, but I will not compromise on money. I've done that before and suffered.

Do you think the industry has been unfair to you?

Well, I have learnt a lot of things in my stint with television. But I often feel that this industry is no place for nice people.

Several people have take undue advantage of my niceness. I was one of the few actors who didn't make noise about not having a make-up room or a separate vanity van, I didn't throw tantrums or make unreasonable demands and just did my work quietly.

I would get depressed when I would hear tales about junior actors getting paid double the amount I was for half the time I'd put in. I have never been able to be a star. I have always seen myself as an actor.

So will money be an important factor in choosing work now?

Of course. I think I have been left behind while other actors have gone ahead because I did not demand a good price.

Now, I will only take on a show if I get a powerhouse role where I can display my talent, or good money that will compensate the time I give to the project.

What is your equation with Balaji?

I have never had any issues with the production house. My problem was with the role and I left when I got tired of it. I hold Ekta Kapoor in high regard and wouldn't think twice about signing up with her again, provided the role is right.