03 May,2016 12:38 PM IST | | Letty Mariam Abraham
Telly actor Mohit Raina in an exclusive interview talks about playing Ashoka, shedding his lord Shiva image, Bollywood aspirations and more. Excerpts from the chat:
Mohit Raina
Mohit Raina, who left an indelible mark in 'Devon Ke Dev Mahadev', is ready to return to the small screen after a long break. He takes over from child prodigy Siddharth Nigam in the TV show 'Chakravartin Ashoka Samrat' which is set to take a leap.
Excerpts from the chat:
Q. How well versed are you with the story of Ashoka?
A. I have a basic idea given that history is a subject I am inclined towards. In the last 14 months, the show has become immensely popular. I have always wanted to be a part of it because it is when you play characters like these that you get to portray a lot of shades. I know about Ashoka's journey; he was one of the greatest emperors. I know of his legacy, the Ashok Chakra, his wars, etc.
Mohit Raina
Q. Physically, how have you prepared for this role?
A. I have tried to look how Siddharth would in about 10-15 years from now. I had to lose a lot of weight and tone up.
Q. For the longest time, you were conscious about your perception since you were playing Lord Shiva. Has that changed now?
A. To an extent, yes. The sentiments were really high at that time. It was not that I was making a deliberate attempt to do that. Back then, people were a bit emotional coming from a country like India where religion is of utmost importance. I think I can be free now.
Q. Is there anything you won't do on-screen?
A. As long as the character is required to do it and live it, I will go to any limits. If needed, I won't mind going nude for the screen. If you have to show a mark on your body or a wound, you just have to do that. Isn't it?
Q. What happened to your Bollywood dreams? We had heard that you recently caught up with a few directors.
A. These things keep happening; you always meet people. What matters is meeting at the right time and for the right project.
Q. Tell us something that people don't know about you?
A. I can be really funny at times. People have never seen me in that avatar. Maybe after Ashoka, I will try my hand at something like that.
Q. What has been the highest and lowest points of your life so far?
A. Highest has been the success of Devon Ke Devâ¦Mahadev. And the lowest was when my dad passed away.
Q. Are you planning to tie the knot anytime soon?
A. I will, when the time is right.
Q. We are sure Mouni Roy (rumoured girlfriend) will say yes if you pop the question.
A. I'll definitely keep that in mind.
