For actor Harry Parmar, quality of roles matter more than the quantity
Vikrant Parmar
He played the role of the terrorist codenamed Doctor in the recently released Netflix series IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack with aplomb, as for actor Harry Parmar it is all about being methodical and meticulous.
So, was this role challenging? Says Harry, “Being a trained actor, I have essayed a broad range of characters. Having said that, any adaptation from real to reel requires preparation and I read the right books to get into the skin of this character — a terrorist, the mastermind behind the hijack.”
Directed by the talented Anubhav Sinha, the experience on the sets was a learning process for Harry. “Anubhav sir gave a lot of trivia that helped me essay the role better. Inside the plane where we shot in, there was a true feeling of a hijack that pervaded. That, in itself, brought out the best in me.”
For this Hoshiarpur-born, Delhi-bred boy, to be an actor was a childhood dream. “During my college days, I was into theatre. I also completed a two-year diploma in theatre acting from Shri Ram Centre for Performing Arts, Delhi.”
After he moved to Mumbai in 2002, the first few years were all about struggle. “Getting work is not easy, it’s a process that takes time. My first big break in acting came with Laal Singh Chadha,” he reminisces.
Harry, who was also seen in projects like Lootere, Ghoul, Asur and more, has never been a part of the television world. As for the comparison between the big screen and OTT, he says, “The grammar for both is the same; there is not much of a difference. But in a web series, the length of a project is longer, like as many as three movies in a single project! Also, OTT is never linear and there are production challenges. I believe it is a tougher format, but quite enjoyable at the same time.”
Over time, Harry has learnt how to take criticism in his stride. “In the world of social media, there is bound to be mudslinging, but one learns to deal with it. I believe nasty comments mostly emanate from fake accounts. Faceless people sure can be ignored.”
As for his choice of roles, he says, “For me quality of any role matters more that the quantity of roles coming my way. I have just started and will keep experimenting with genres, but want to be smart about my choices.”
His advice to young actors out there is meaningful too, “Never come to Mumbai with a timeline. It will take time to set yourself up in the industry. There will be no jaadu in a couple of years. You need to love your craft and need patience.”
