"I am very choosy about my roles": Vipul Gupta

Young actor Vipul Gupta who rose to fame with 'India Calling' is in a happy space with his new show 'Meri Bhabhi'.

Published: Wednesday,Jul 17, 2013 16:52 PM GMT-06:00

Monica Varma

The very good-looking actor Vipul Gupta who rose to limelight with 'India Calling' and left an indelible mark in the hearts of the Indian television audiences about half a decade back with his much-loved character, is doing remarkably well with his come-back show Ek Nanad Ki Khushiyon Ki Chaabi…Meri Bhabhi on Star Plus.

Tell us about your character in Meri Bhabhi? What made you take up this show?

Well, my character is named as Anand Shergill in the show. Anand is a very family oriented guy who is well-aware of his responsibilities. He shares a beautiful relationship with his wife Kritika (Esha Kansara). Moreover, he is the only person who stands against the wrong doings and has his own opinion, in order to set things on the right path and lead a happy life.

How does it feel to be back on a daily soap?

It always feels great to be a part of a daily soap. I started my acting profession with Star Plus's show, K Street Pali Hill followed by India Calling on Star One, which brought a high in my career. With regards to the soaring creativity, I feel content that I landed with Meri Bhabhi now, another Star Plus show. However, I have always taken up only one show at a time, which has helped me to give my best shot and perform well.

Why did you take a break from television?

Taking a break was a conscious decision to try my luck in movies. After having done well in television shows and ad campaigns, I ended up doing character roles in films like Fox, Anjaan, Saturday Night and Yeh Saali Zindagi. Even though my filmi career didn't shape up the way I wanted, it was a good experience altogether. The entire process of film making runs at a slower pace as compared to a daily soap. Frankly speaking, I'm a workaholic who wishes to be constantly working, and daily soaps give me that comfort. Therefore, I'm glad the way my career has shaped and I've again forayed into television with daily soaps.

Are you choosy about your roles?

Absolutely, I'm very choosy about my roles. And luckily, I've always been associated with the greatest shows on the best channels. I think every actor has his choice and preferences of roles. You cannot just take up anything randomly; the role you are going to live up on the screen should first convince you and then the audience.

Now that you are back, what changes have you experienced in the television industry?

Talking about the changes, definitely, the television industry has evolved over a period of time and it is still improving. As per my experience, I too have observed some positive changes. In fact, now the audience is smart enough and for that reason they know exactly what kind of content they wish to watch. The viewers nowadays don't look up to something over-dramatic.

What kind of an equation do you share with your co-stars?

It's an absolutely wonderful experience working with the entire cast of Meri Bhabhi. We have our share of fun behind the scenes. Each day, we shoot for nearly 13 hours, so there has to be some enjoyment and mischief on the sets. Nevertheless, I have taken the accountability and I keep myself rejuvenated by playing pranks on others on the sets.

What kind of response have you been getting for Meri Bhabhi?

I am overwhelmed by the amazing response I've been getting from everyone. Even when our Indian television is considered to be women dominated, my role in Meri Bhabhi does not limit my significance in the show. As far as this show is concerned, I'm satisfied with its creative aspect, content and the space it is providing me.

Do you think the industry is over populated now and not enough meaty roles are there for all the talented actors?

Definitely the competition is very tough. In fact after my MBA, when I was working for a multinational company, I carried out a survey which concluded with the statistics that only 0.2% of this industry is successful whereas about 2% of the corporate world has touched success.

Who are your close friends in the industry?

Fortunately, I'm in good contact with my co-actors Ashwini Kalsekar, Nividita Bhattacharya, Vikram Kapadia, Manasi Parekh. Also, Mihir Mishra and Maninee Mihir Mishra are my very close friends in the industry.

Three things you wish to change about yourself?

I have to learn to listen more.

I have to learn to be more patient.

I have to learn the art of saying 'No' to people.

Which Bollywood actor you admire the most?

In Bollywood, obviously, I admire Mr. Amitabh Bachchan for his tremendous acting and screen presence. Apart from him, I like Aamir Khan for his perfection. Among the actresses, I have always appreciated Sri Devi ji and even after such a long time, she has done phenomenally well in her last movie English Vinglish. She looks completely stunning and the spark she has maintained is just commendable.

Where do you see yourself five years from now?

Well, this industry is very unpredictable. My personal experience says that one cannot plan their future here and we should just go with the flow. However, I'm working hard and doing the best I can.

Best compliment you've ever received.

Generally, I keep getting compliments on my smile and eyes. So far, the best compliment that I got was a year back while I was shooting in Mussoorie. A small girl told me, 'Your smile brings a sparkle in my eyes.'

What is the philosophy of your life?

Life is too short, so enjoy it to the fullest! Never get stuck and keep moving on.