'How can I play a father to a girl of my age?'
Aman Verma tells BT why he doesn't like doing the usual saasbahu serials and how the sting operation has made him stronger
SARAH SALVADORE
You are working in a serial after a very long time...
I've always done one serial at a time. And all of them have been different from each other. I have hosted shows like Indian Idol, Jaadu and Khulja Sim Sim. I've played a negative character in Devi and even acted as a father in Kyunkii Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi and Kehta Hai Dil. I feel that as an actor, one needs to keep doing things differently every time. So, when I was offered Viraasat, I took it up.
What compelled you to take up this role?
The character that I play in Viraasat is a complete freak. He reacts to situations differently everyday. His behaviour pattern is never the same. Moreover, the biggest compliment I received was when the makers said that only I can do justice to such a character. What other reason do I need to choose this role?
One does not see you acting in soaps of late. Why is that ?
I don't like the way the storyline changes every time. When I was offered Kehta Hai Dil, the storyline was different. But later, it went the usual saas-bahu way. How could I play a father to a girl of my age? But still I tried. When I saw it was not working, I quit. I prefer to stay away from shows like that.
That must have caused some bad blood then?
Yes, there has been bad blood between me and the other serial makers and I make no bones about it. As an actor, I believe in myself. But I have never thought of making an issue out of it like the others do. I do my job, take the money and leave. I don't believe in hanging around or making my displeasure public.
You also seem to have distanced yourself from the TV industry...
After the whole sting operation episode, I came to know that there are actually no friends in this industry. No one stood by me. I have given eight years to this industry and in return, they did not even stand by me. I came from Delhi to become an actor. I have struggled a lot. I thought I had friends, but I was wrong. When the time came, everyone chickened out. Such a thing could happen to anybody. So why single me out? But I must say that the film industry stood by me during that time. I'm really thankful to Salman Khan, Govinda and some other actors for their support.
Has the whole incident changed your life in anyway?
Definitely. I'm a much more stronger and wiser person now. While I was going through that phase, everyone thought that Aman Verma is finished. But I'm a stronger man today.
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