Mahesh is cheerful! -- Article

Mahesh Thakur (TOI Photo)

Well, I was part of an ad campaign for a company


What brings you to Kolkata?

Well, I was part of an ad campaign for a company and they were having a promotional event, so they asked me to come down to Kolkata. I enjoyed being in the city. I decided to check out the nightlife. And I must admit, it was fun. In fact, the CT shutterbug has pictures of me boogying the night away.

You recently played a small part in the TV show, Babul ka Sapna...Bidaai. What made you take up the offer?

I've known Rajan Shahi, since the time I was working in Sailaab. So, when he turned producer with Bidaai, he wanted me to be part of the serial. I was aware that the role was short as the director had informed me. The producers just wanted to start the shooting with me and what I did was just
symbolic.

Sailaab was a benchmark in Indian television. Which other show of yours can be compared to Sailaab?

Honestly, I'm yet to come across a script as good as Sailaab. I have done numerous serials after that, but none could be compared.

What about Astitva, which was critically acclaimed?

In Astitva, my character was given prominence for only six odd months. In television these things happen as the storyline keeps changing and the spotlight shifts from one character to another.

Do you think Indian television has evolved a lot over the years?

Indian television has a long way to go. We are not experimenting enough in terms of storylines. Everyone follows the formula. When Kyunki... became a hit, almost all shows began following the same pattern and storyline. Where is the variety?

You've also experimented with comedy...

I enjoy comedy a lot and people associate me with my comic roles. I'm a fun-loving person and that comes across on screen too. Serious roles take a toll on you after a certain point of time. But comedies help you keep it light.

Is there any particular character that you would love to essay?

I would love to play the villain. In fact, there is something like that in the pipeline.

Do you think the audience will accept you playing a negative character?

Look, I'm an actor and it's my job to do roles with different shades. Playing a negative character is something that I wanted to do and now that I've the chance, then why not? The audience has always loved me and I'm sure I'll make a convincing villain.

Are there any film projects in the pipeline?

Yes, I'm doing two films one directed by Kunal Kohli and the other for Yash Raj Films.

Source: times of india