Talented and versatile actor Abrar Qazi, who is known for his portrayal of Raghu in Colors popular show Gathbandhan, is seen in a completely new avatar in Star Plus popular show Yeh Hai Chahatein (Yeh Hai Mohabbatein spin-off ) where he is playing the role of a Rockstar – Rudraksh Khurana.
In an exclusive conversation with IWMBuzz.com, Abrar talks about his new journey with Yeh Hai Chahatein, challenges and more…
Excerpts.
How has your journey been so far in the show Yeh Hai Chahatein?
It has been a wonderful experience so far and I really love being a part of it. We have been shooting for a couple of months now and I feel that everybody associated with this show has bonded very well with each other. From the actors to the crew, everybody really works like one big family and it really feels like my second home. I am blessed to have such amazing people around me.
How satisfied are you with the role at the moment?
I am thoroughly enjoying it. Playing Rudraksh is quite fun because this character has a lot of layers to him. He is not a one-dimensional character. He is not your typical good guy who is near perfect. He has flaws and that is what makes him real. Also, this character is unpredictable and you don’t know how he is going to react in a particular situation. As an actor, I get to play a lot with this role.
You have been winning appreciation for your role. How does it feel? Share any best compliment received so far?
I feel blessed. There is no greater joy than people coming up to you and appreciating your work. Every actor strives for it. It gives you the motivation to work even harder. People have told me that my eyes are really expressive. I don’t know how true that is but I love to hear that!
What is the biggest lesson that this industry has taught you over the years?
I have had my fair share of experiences in this industry and I have learnt one important lesson that I would like to share with everyone else. It is to stay grounded, have patience, never forget your roots and be hardworking. That has always been my approach. An actor’s life is not an easy one. It comes with a lot of conditions. The constant pressure to perform, to be in the limelight, getting good work all this takes its toll on you but if you are clear about your goal and really put your effort into it, there won’t be a problem.
How has your bond been with Sargun Kaur during the entire show?
Sargun is a very fun loving person, very easy to work with and we get along well. She is quite hardworking as an actor and she is doing a commendable job playing such a well-thought-out and mature role at her age.
How have you evolved as an actor?
I think the beauty of this profession is that you get to learn something new every day. You learn by experiences, observing your environment, the culture you are in, your co-actors and that is how you evolve. This has been my approach throughout my career. I take inspiration from real-life experiences. An actor’s job is dynamic so it is a constant learning process
Do you have any regret in life?
I think the biggest regret I have is that I wish I would have tried my luck sooner in this field but I couldn’t because I had some family issues and had to complete my studies. I had no contact in Mumbai and had no idea how to get here. I just knew I really wanted to but I also believe everything happens for a reason and maybe this was the right time.
Who has been your biggest support in your journey?
My family, especially my mom. She always believed in me. I come from a place where joining film or TV industry is a distant dream and there are a lot of people who wouldn’t want their children to chase a career in this industry but my mom always supported me. She also helped me set up everything in Mumbai initially when I came here. I wouldn’t have been able to do this without her.
How do you unwind yourself when not working?
I hardly get time to plan anything or go somewhere. It gets quite hectic when you are working in the TV industry. We are working so hard day in and day out so when I do get an off I prefer sleeping a bit more and go out in the evening to meet friends at our favourite places.
What are you doing these days during the quarantine phase?
I am watching a lot of web and TV shows and I have been an avid gamer all my life so I have booted up my PS4 after years to play some of my favourite video games. I am also trying to inculcate a habit of reading books and since I love filmmaking I am thinking of making some short films at home. Looking for ideas but I get lazy sometimes.
Any final message for the audience…
In this period of crisis that we all have been facing, I want to tell everybody that please don’t panic or worry. Stay calm and do as the government says. Do not go out unless it is extremely important. Be safe and keep others safe too. Also, try to utilize this time by spending it with your family and do some productive work. Try to learn a new skill or develop a new hobby. I hope that everything gets back on track and we return to keep you guys entertained. Sending my love to all of you.
