‘Tenali Rama: career’s benchmark’

How has been your journey as Pandit Ramakrishna in Tenali Rama?

It has been extraordinary in these last two years. It has been a benchmark of my career and has changed my life as an individual and as an actor. I have grown as an actor while portraying this character.

The show is gearing up for a leap. What are your thoughts on that?

Personally, I am thrilled about this change. Being a theatre artiste, I often get bored playing the same character over a period of time. 

How different would be your character post leap?

The leap is called Tenali Rama– Bhaskar Adhyaay and as Bhaskar is Rama’s son, he will possess similar qualities but at the same time the father-son duo is fairly different from each other. 

Does your look stay the same post leap?

No. My outfits, makeup as well as jewelry will be changed. The entire setting of the story in which Bhaskar will be placed is completely different.

What do you relate the most to; Rama or Bhaskar?

Whatever Rama does comes out from within and as an actor. I am certainly more like Rama as I have known him the longest, lived his life and his feelings. I am still learning about Bhaskar but whatever I have known so far, I don’t think as an individual I relate with him in equal depth as Rama.  

How different is it shooting with the new cast? 

An immensely talented star cast has been put together for the leap and I am excited to work with them. With every new artist there is something new that I can learn from.

What do you think works best for an actor in today’s scenario?

I think the viewer’s expectations are high these days. Whoever is able to give variety and fresh story, will do well. Television is willing to pay more to nurture talent.