'Experience of A Lifetime' - Sharad Malhotra

Have you ever felt under pressure in playing this role? . This mentally challenged guy roles have been played by some of great actors of yesteryears. So did you see films like Khilona, Sadma or the latest one Koi Mil Gaya to get the feel of character?

The first time I was offered this role, my knees were trembling and my immediate answer was NO. All were taken aback; all advised me to grab this opportunity, as this will surely be a Dream Debut for me. I was surely nervous to begin with, but I settled down gradually. It was a slow process for sure, but now I can say that I have got into the skin of the character really nicely. Yes, I have watched all the stars like Sanjeevji, Sridevi and Hirthik in those movies. I have also done quite a lot of reading. I have watched films like Forest Gump, Honey I shrunk the Kids, Black. So yes, I have done bit of research before I adorned the role of Saagar.

What are the best compliments you have ever recieved on the role you are portraying?

“Are you really mad?”, this is the question that all started to ask me. When I used to go to Malls and other public places like Movie halls, people never used to come near me. They used to stand at a distance, watch me, and watch my mannerisms. The kids especially, used to be so scared, they would ask me from a distance – “Can I come near you? Will you harm me If I come near?” “Kya Aap muje maroge toh nahi?”, Kya aap meri dost banoge?”, these are the best compliments I have ever received.

Do you think that its easy to get people's, especially women’s sympathy while potraying such a role as women love kids, and their emotional quotient is always on a high level?

Actually when I started, I had targeted the kids. I wanted to appease and attract the kids with my role. But as the story moved on, lot of girls and women started to love my character. But to me, I have always aimed to getting kids interest. But with time, I have also got a huge fan base with girls.

What is your message to your fans?

I love them, love them, love them a lot. They are simply amazing; they have been very kind to me. Especially when this was my debut show, with all the tension and fears attached to playing this role, my fans in IF have really been a support for me.

Well Sharad, we hope to see much more of your dark suits and your scintillating, low voice... as soon as these scenes occur more frequently in the serial, the hearts of many more girls will be stolen and all we will be able to say is, "haila!"

Reporter: Srividya Rajesh
Writer - Ankita K.
Contact PM Writer: ammmu