In Shah Rukh’s footprints

Harshvardhan Rane, who has been receiving rave reviews for his role in ‘Sanam Teri Kasam’ in an exclusive interview

Tell us about your stint in acting?
I ran away from my home in Gwalior when I was 16-years-old and I had Rs 200 in my pocket when I came to Delhi. I started working in a telephone booth for Rs 10 per day. I was good at typing so, later I got a job at a cyber café where the work was the same but I started earning Rs 20 per day. There I met a person who offered me a job in Mumbai as a DVD distributor. Luckily that person used to work in film branding and that is when I got my first TV show offer —‘Left Right Left’ in 2007.

What inspired you to take up the show?
I thought it was a great opportunity since Shah Rukh Khan too had started with television, in a serial about the Army and this serial was also about Indian Military Academy. I thought I was following his footprints. In fact, I learned to act in Delhi from Barry John Acting Studio and have performed in many theatrical ventures. Barry John also taught Shah Rukh Khan.

Why did you reject a role in ‘Ram Leela’?
I was not looking forward to doing negative roles. I wanted to do something new and different but not the darker shade. People expected me to do negative roles, but I didn’t and so I lost some great work as well. However, I have no regrets for not being a part of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s film. I would love to work with him in future.

Tell us about your much-talked chemistry with Mawra Hocane?
‘Sanam Teri Kasam' is a classic love story. People generally have an image of a princess in mind. She is someone who is sweet, simple and petite. I think she is the most beautiful and strong girl. I am happy that the romantic moments between me and Mawra in the film have impressed the audience. There was such good comfort level between us.

What are your upcoming films?
I am doing a lead role in the film, ‘Satra Ko Shaadi Hai’ which is produced by John Abraham opposite popular TV actor Barun Sobti.