Intense, dramatic roles attract me :Interview of Ashish in HT

Says TV actor Ashish Sharma; adds that these parts give him more scope to perform

Ashish Sharma has done numerous roles on the small screen, often playing intense and dramatic characters in shows like Rangrasiya, Gunahon Ka Devta and Chandragupta Maurya. With his current serial, the actor has taken on yet another strong role. Here, he talks about his love for drama and writing, his plans to direct, and more.

I have grown up with my dad's poems and writings. I have had a lot of exposure to literature in my house. " Ashish Sharma, actor

You seem to enjoy doing intense roles.

I love them. Intense, dramatic roles attract me; they come naturally to me. Also, they give me more scope to perform. People love watching me in such roles, and I like the layers these characters have. I did try some comedy in Love Sex Aur Dhokha (2010), but after a point, those roles become monotonous. There is nothing left to explore in them.

Is doing a mythological show a bigger responsibility?

Yes, you not only have to look the part, but also perform at a level that is different from other shows that have been made on the same subject. I worked on my body for six months, and even grew my hair. I also learnt archery and martial arts.

Does your wife, Archana Taide,

like your look?

She loves my long hair. I have had it since college. For the soldier's role in Rangrasiya, I had to cut it really short, and that upset her a lot. It's tough to manage long hair, but I like the look.

Is it true that you are a writer as well?

I have grown up with my dad's poems and writings. I have had a lot of exposure to literature in my house. I have never seen my dad without a book in my life. I picked up this love for writing from him. I used to scribble when I was younger. Later, I began jotting down things I saw in life. I have penned travelogues, and I love writing about new places and people. I see the sarcastic side of life, so you will see dark humour in what I scribble.

How was it to direct a TV show for a youth channel?

It was fun. I did it last year to stay busy in my free time. I like to explore other aspects of production. The process of film-making interests me. I have directed three episodes of the show; it was about four friends and their lives.

Do you want to pursue direction in the future?

Not right now; maybe later in life.