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When anchor turned actor Gunjan Utreja stepped into the huge shoes of Vivian Dsena in Madhubala Ek Ishq Ek Junoon a month ago, he ensured that the spotlight was firmly trained on him. Excerpts from a chat:
Following dreams When I was in college, I wanted to be a TV host. But, I had no idea on how to get started. So, like most under-grads, I started preparing for MBA entrance examinations, but while attending a career-orientation seminar, I read this sentence 'You shouldn't chase degrees but chase your dreams' that I made up my mind about what I wanted to do. I'd been shortlisted by IIM Lucknow but I joined a masters' course in dramatics to enhance my acting skills.
Actor by chance I started hosting local events, and moved to Mumbai from Chandigarh. I had my share of struggle as I didn't know anyone in entertainment industry, playing bit roles in TV shows. I've been an anchor for eight years and then I was asked to audition for MEIEJ. I hadn't expected to bag the role!
Following dreams When I was in college, I wanted to be a TV host. But, I had no idea on how to get started. So, like most under-grads, I started preparing for MBA entrance examinations, but while attending a career-orientation seminar, I read this sentence 'You shouldn't chase degrees but chase your dreams' that I made up my mind about what I wanted to do. I'd been shortlisted by IIM Lucknow but I joined a masters' course in dramatics to enhance my acting skills.
Actor by chance I started hosting local events, and moved to Mumbai from Chandigarh. I had my share of struggle as I didn't know anyone in entertainment industry, playing bit roles in TV shows. I've been an anchor for eight years and then I was asked to audition for MEIEJ. I hadn't expected to bag the role!
Vivian's cool, so am I Though Abhay Kapoor, my character has no connection with RK the character Vivian (Dsena) immortalised, people continue to compare us. Recently I met Vivian at an event and he seemed like a cool guy. We chatted about the show, he shared his experiences and was all praise for the team.
Real me I am very focussed. I went on a rigorous exercise and diet regimen to get in to shape. I went vegetarian for two and half months to lose the flab. At this point I have no time for relationships. Work is the only priority. I can't focus on any one else besides me.
Real me I am very focussed. I went on a rigorous exercise and diet regimen to get in to shape. I went vegetarian for two and half months to lose the flab. At this point I have no time for relationships. Work is the only priority. I can't focus on any one else besides me.
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