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Television heartthrob Shaheer Sheikh is turning heads with his portrayal of Dev in Beyond Dreams’ Kuch Rang Pyaar Ke Aise Bhi. After having played the sweet Anant of Navya and bold Arjun in Mahabharat, Shaheer is back for more. The actor who has returned on screen after a two year hiatus sat down with us for a brief heart to heart on the success of his new show and much more. Find out what he had to say:
You are back on Indian television after two years. How does it feel?
I have not played a matured character (Dev) like this before and when they narrated the story I almost started living the character, and also I felt each and every character. For television, it’s a very strong character.I knew it was challenging as it would not come naturally to me. I had heard good things about Beyond Dreams, so wanted to work with them. They work on the base of the story and don’t deviate, no matter how the ratings are. Every character I was offered around that time was of a hero, this character (Dev) is not a hero but a normal guy which everyone can relate to.
How much did you miss Indian television while working in Indonesia?
Obviously the comfort zone which I have here (India) was not there because I was working with a new set of people. It took some time to learn the language and also the working style was different. I always wanted to explore and challenge new things in life. Since I was kid, I had the interest in knowing about new culture and places. Mahabharata was a big was thing there and especially the character of Arjun. That’s how they approached me initially. I worked there for 1.5 years, got lots of love which was a pleasant surprise. So it was a good change for me.
What kind of shows people like in Indonesia?
They are open to new ideas. Chakravartin Ashoka Samrat is doing well, Mahabharat was a huge success. They are keen on watching lot of Indian shows. Even though it’s a Muslim country they love Mahabharata, they have lot of respect for all the characters. They are very accepting. There are no fights or processions on any kind of content on television. But action scenes are cut off as they don’t want to show any violence on television.
Would you like to comment on your break-up with your Indonesian girl friend Ayu Ting Ting. What went wrong in your relationship?
I think one of the major reasons behind our break-up was communication gap. She didn’t speak English much and I didn’t speak Indonesian much we hardly understood each others feelings or emotions. Plus there were other issues like who will stay where as I wanted to comeback to India.
What is your take on marriage now?
Yes, I am ready for marriage. But I don’t know when that will happen as I need to first fall in love to get married. I have no idea if I will go for an arranged marriage or love marriage. I have learnt one thing in life that if you love to be with someone you have to accept that person with the flaws.
Was it deliberate to stay away from Indian television after Mahabharat?
No. I liked working over there (Indonesia) so I continued working. I was offered shows after Mahabharat but I wanted to do something which I could relate to.
Many television actors are making the transition to films. Do you also have such aspiration?
I want to do good work. I too was offered films but I think it’s better to do good television shows rather than a small role in a film. Personally, I feel if you do a bad role in a film you may not get television also in future. I would watch lot of Hollywood films and TV shows and think when this will happen to India. And it’s happening now, it’s a good change. I think we are heading in the right direction.
Are there any plans of getting into direction?
Yes I want to direct. I am working on web series. Hopefully I will get time to shoot that. On script level it’s ready. I wouldn’t act in it.
Are you open to reality shows?
I can do a dance, adventure or sports based reality shows. But can’t live in a locked house because I’m very moody.
How is it working with producer Yash Patnaik. It is learnt you always wanted to work with him? How is the experience of working with Beyond Dreams?
So far it’s been a great experience. The shooting is very smooth and the atmosphere on the sets is very positive. I was very impressed with the ground rules and principles of Yash Patnaik’s production house.
