New article : There is a lot to learn frm Bhansali

Do you identify with Saraswati?
I do, in more ways than one. He is religious like me. He respects elders and helps people in need, and so do I. He is more or less like every one of us. I am different in a way that he is an introvert and takes out his anger on himself, but I am quite an extrovert.

How has it been working with Sanjay Leela Bhansali?
It's fun. He explains the minutest detail of a character. There is a lot to learn from him.

How has the audience reaction been?
So far so good. The show's TRP is growing and everyone is discussing about the show on social networking sites. I keep getting few cards and letters saying, 'Gautam, I want to marry you.' The only disturbing fact is that I can't even pray in a temple without getting mobbed. Log mandir ke andar bhi pictures click karna chahte hai.

There was a buzz that you were planning to tie the knot. So have you found your dream girl?
I am single right now. I was seeing someone a few years ago and was also planning to marry her. But it didn't work out. As of now, there is nobody in my life.

How was the sky diving experience during the shoot? The first time it was scary, but then it was fun and exciting. Gradually I loved it. I had to clear 10 jumps with the trainer before I was allowed to dive alone.

You have worked in Bollywood before. Any films in the offing?
When you plan, it doesn't work. I have learned to do my best at any given moment. Earlier, I wanted to remain under-exposed and save myself for films, but have realized that you should do the work you get. Right now, I am a part of the biggest non-fiction show as well as biggest fiction show. TV can't get bigger than this. Bas, time achcha chal raha hai. If and when films come my way, I will take it up. I'd rather take it step by step rather than jumping on to something.

How comfortable are you with Karan Wahi?
We have known each other for long. I used to call him chhote while he used to call me bhai sa. So there is a certain level of respect in our equation. Our comfort level also comes across on screen.

You are sporting chiselled abs. Is it for the show?
No, I have always been a fitness freak. I maintain myself by eating right and working out.

Who are your favorites on Nach Baliye this season?
Jay-Mahhi and Ravi-Sargun are the strongest contenders. Either of them should win.

You are portraying two different sides of you in the two shows. Does it affect the way the audience perceives you?
Both. In Nach, I am my usual self. When people see me there, they expect fun, entertainment and commercial value. But when they see me in Saraswatichandra, it's a role reversal. They expect me to be intense and romantic. So the audience treats the two treat it differently. As an actor, it's a great thing to be portraying two different characters at the same time.