New Anand on TV - indya.com *Pic of HTs look*

STAR One's prime time show Rang Badalti Odhani will soon bring in a new character, Anand, played by Hiten Tejwani. This character is a happy-go-lucky man, who lives in Khanak's village. Although it is a cameo, his character is an important one, as he teaches Khanak how to live life to the fullest. We caught up with the actor and asked him how it was on his first day on the sets.

How was your first day on the sets?

It's been a fun first day. The work atmosphere is wonderful. My co-star Yashashri, who plays Khanak, is very down-to-earth. It's also been great reuniting and working again with Swapnaji. She's asked the cast and crew to call me Hitenji or Hiten Sir (laughs). It's funny, actually. I've yet to meet Karan (Tacker), who plays Shantanu.

You're working with Swapna Joshi again. How're the memories associated with working with her?

Like I've said before, she's my favourite director. The memories of Kutumb came back. It felt like we never stopped working together, when we had lunch on the sets. She has jokingly warned the other people of the sets to be careful of me. She also joked about me seeking out her blessings by telling everyone on the sets that I was doing it for attention (laughs)

What was your first reaction to playing a villager?

I do detailed research about the character I'm supposed to play. However, when Ekta Kapoor or Swapnaji offer me a role, I don't ask about the character. I know that they know what I am capable of, and that's why they choose me. The only condition I've put is that Swapnaji direct all my scenes.

Describe the look you have in the show?

I'm from Dhulvadi, a village. As a villager, I'll be wearing earrings, as village men also pierce their ears. The initial plan was to give me a turban as well, but that idea got scrapped.

What do you think your fans will say to your new look?

I think that the response has been positive. My fans, who bump into me, ask that I come more regularly on shows. I was getting a lot of offers, but none of the roles appealed to me. This is something new, and it seemed challenging, which is why I took it up.

Since your character comes from Dhulwadi, did you have to work on the accent?

I won't be speaking in Gujarati all the time, but I'll use popular phrases like Kem Chho? and Majaama? I know the basic words, as I've been brought up in an area dominated by Gujaratis.

How will you solve Shaan and Khanak's issues?

As the show progresses, the character will help Shaan and Khanak. I have no idea how, but his role is to bring the couple back together. He meets Khanak in the bus, and she gets irritated by his constant chatter. The scene in the bus is funny. Everyone is happy to see Anand, as he has a gift for everyone.

Is the role a cameo or is there a chance of getting it extended?

I don't know yet. If the fans like the character, the role may extend. Currently, I'm shooting for 10-12 days until the couple gets back together. I want my character to be remembered by fans of the show, irrespective of whether my role is a cameo or a full-fledged one. It's an opportunity for any artiste to showcase their talent, especially when the job given is a challenging one. There is an aura to this character, and I want to set an example with this character, as an actor.

What do you want to say to all STAR One fans?

I'm doing this serial for my fans. It's nice to be part of the STAR family again, and I hope that Odhani fans will love this character.

Don't forget to watch Hiten Tejwani as Anand in Rang Badalti Odhani every Monday to Saturday at 10 PM, only on STAR One.