It is often said that one hit show can change your ball game. The latest actor to experience this heady feeling is Sumeet Bhardwaj of popular STAR Plus horror saga, Qayamat Ki Raat (Balaji Telefilms).He essays a village man, Dharam, who helps Gauri (Karishma Tanna)take on the evil Kalasure (Saurish Singh Athwal).“Life is good; I am getting recognized and being called for events.”
Prior to this, this Delhi guy has acted in Kal Bhairav and Shastri Sisters, where he was the good boy. “This is my best outing so far, as my rustic character has lots of meat.”
As of now Dharam is positive, but very soon, his feelings for Gauri will lead to trouble, as the former has eyes only for Raj (Vivek Dahiya).“I am looking forward to it, for negative characters get much to do. Plus, given our TV space, a romantic angle is needed to give an edge. Having said that, our show is more about the fight between good and evil. The best part of doing a Balaji show is that all the characters get their due, and the leads don’t unnecessarily hog all the limelight.”
When we ask about the new horror rage, he says, “Simple, make hay while the sun shines; once it peters out, they will try something else. Small-townies and kids are loving the hand-caused spooks and chill, raising our TRPs. Our early eve weekend slot is very child-friendly. Having said that, metro audiences do not really bite our fare.”
Although personally, Sumeet believes in the existence of negative powers, “I am just glad that they have kept their distance so far.”
In closing, while Sumeet is thankful for fame, he will not let it get to his head. “These other trappings are by-products of success, which in itself is very fleeting. You need to up your game every day; one miss-step and you’re history.”
Wall said, indeed.
