Escaping the image trap-Newspaper Article

His role of Jai Walia is still etched in the minds of television viewers. Actor Ram Kapoor's role in soap opera 'Kasamh Se' for four long years made him not only a household name but also landed him four roles in Bollywood films.

Ram, who dropped by in Delhi to promote his latest serial 'Basera,' says making the right choices in selecting better roles and bigger production houses has stood him in good stead for the past ten years. "I was offered two movies before 'Kasmh Se' but I declined. The actors who did those films are nowhere to be seen. Even when I was doing 'Kasamh Se' on Zee TV I was advised by many in the film industry not to do a role for such a long time. There is nothing like over exposure. I believe if your work is good then you don't fall into an image trap."

Talking about his forthcoming films, Ram says in 'Kartik Calling Kartik' he got a chance to act alongside Farhan Akhtar and Deepika Padukone. "The two actors are playing the main parts. The other movie is Anurag Kashyap's 'Udaan.' Two other movies are in the pipeline."

Explaining his take on being slotted as a T.V. actor, Ram says, "I see myself as an artiste whether it is Bollywood, Tollywood or television. It is only in this country that there is distinction between TV artistes and film actors. In 'Friends' serial the actors are as big as Hollywood stars. I want to have the best of both the worlds and am able to balance my work between small screen and big screen."

While hosting his earlier show 'Rakhi Ka Swayamvar,' Ram got a chance to work closely with actor-cum-dancer Rakhi Sawant. "Rakhi is a thoroughly professional person. And she didn't throw any starry tantrums on the sets," he says.

Talking about the concept of the show Ram says, "I don't think the reality show was a put on act. The fact that 25 million tele-viewers remained glued to the show makes it clear that there were genuine emotions between the bride Rakhi and the grooms. Whether some of the grooms had come with an intention to come into the limelight rather than entering into wedlock with Rakhi is something that I cannot comment on. A serious issue like marriage was shown in an entertaining format."

Recalling his struggling days Ram says, "To get work as an actor was not an easy task. Neither did I have any godfather nor was I a star's son. I am extremely fortunate to have made a career out of my passion. Only 2 per cent of prospective actors are able to fulfil their childhood dreams."

Acknowledging that Balaji Telefilms proprietor Ekta Kapoor has played a major role in his success, Ram says Ekta always offered him good roles. "One day I got a call from the Balaji and they invited me to meet Ekta and listen to the script of 'Kasamh Se.' After listening to the whole story I gave a nod the same day as the story seemed fantastic."

Admitting that portraying Jai Walia's character was a difficult task, Ram says his character went through lot of trials and tribulations including adultery, losing a child and killing his wife's mother. "I don't share any similarities with Jai and that is why it was a rewarding experience to get into the skin of this character."

About his newly launched show 'Basera' on NDTV Imagine, Ram says the serial has a social message and is close to his heart. "It tells people how to treat their elders. At this stage, my character looks like a regular guy but soon he will show different shades of his personality."