Talented actor Aakash Ahuja who plays the leading man in Sony SAB’s show Badall Pe Paon Hai, is happy to be a part of the entertainment industry which has allowed every actor to shine and hone his / her craft. Today, 19 November, on the occasion of International Men’s Day, he talks about both men and women going through their battles in life.
We have Aakash talking to IWMBuzz.com about his thoughts on making a place for himself with his craft in shows that are mostly women-oriented. He thanks the wise audiences for seeing the larger picture and enjoying and appreciating a variety of characters.
Read on.
What is the significance of International Men’s Day to you?
Honestly, it doesn’t hold much significance to me. This concept feels quite Western and isn’t rooted in our culture. It’s nice to have days celebrating different things, but for me, every day should be about mutual respect and celebrating both men and women for who they are.
Talking about television, most of the projects on TV are women-oriented. Amidst this, how challenging has it been for you to look for roles where you have the meat to perform and prove yourself?
Most of the shows I have been a part of are women-centric, and that’s absolutely fine. What really matters is how you approach your role and bring your craft to the forefront. If you are good at what you do, the story and dynamics shift naturally, and everyone gets their moment to shine. Thankfully, audiences today enjoy watching a variety of characters, and the focus has moved beyond just one protagonist. It’s refreshing to see how stories now celebrate all perspectives, without resorting to outdated tropes like portraying women as damsels in distress.
How has the role of Rajat of Badall Pe Paon Hai Hai been for you from the perspective of a male actor? How much do you think Rajat has a justified stance in terms of prominence?
It’s been a rewarding and different experience. Rajat, as a character, brought a fresh perspective to television, especially for male protagonists. He’s a middle-class boy with grounded values, and his journey reflects the life of many everyday people. Our makers were brave in designing Rajat’s arc, and I am grateful that audiences have embraced him so warmly.
How eager are you to get a male-centric role in any medium? If so, what is your dream role?
I don’t aspire to do male-centric projects specifically. For me, every character in a project has significance, and I focus on the importance of the role within the story. I would rather play a role that’s integral to the narrative than just be part of something for the sake of focus. My dream roles? They keep evolving. I am someone who likes surprises, and I trust the Universe to bring me roles that I am meant to do. But one thing is clear: I won’t be playing a ‘bahu’ anytime soon haha!
Do you think there are situations in which men are deprived of what they deserve? Anything that you have experienced/ seen/ heard?
I think this isn’t about men or women, it applies to everyone. We all have our struggles and journeys. While the challenges women face are undoubtedly more, everyone has their battles. Instead of generalizing by gender, we should look at each person’s experience individually.
How do you think the future holds for the leading men, especially in TV which is very women-oriented?
The future looks bright for those who focus on their craft. It’s no longer just about appearances or styling, it’s about honing your skills and connecting with the audience through authentic performances. While the audience can be unpredictable, talent and hard work always pays off. Those who work on their craft and skills honestly will always find opportunities, no matter the medium.