How was it working with Anurag Kashyap and Nawazuddin Siddiqui?
Bagging RR 2.0 was special as I assisted Anurag Kashyap on Gangs of Wasseypur. Being directed by him was a surreal feeling.
Didn’t you lock yourself up to prepare yourself for the Raman Raghav 2.0 audition?
I needed to isolate myself, and was not in touch with friends or family.
Was all of it taxing?
Physically, the role of a drug-addict was demanding. I was on a lean diet, even low on water!
From engineering to Bollywood?
As a kid I was interested in studies, cricket and movies. In my second year of engineering I stepped into a company and knew it wasn’t for me.
Was it in any way helpful that you have a father who is part of Bollywood?
My father was inspiring. He’s self-made—from a stunt man in 1978 to where he has reached now.
Your go-to movie?
Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar and 12 Angry Men.
Who’s the actor you look up to?
I have two—Dilip Kumar and Amitabh Bachchan.
What do you make of the recent controversies surrounding the censor board?
I think the Udta Punjab episode has been an eye-opener for many. If an artist feels restricted, there is a problem that needs to be addressed.
What about many new actors kick-starting their careers as assistant directors?
When I started, I wanted to understand how all the pieces fit in the big puzzle of Bollywood.
Any coveted role?
On my to-do list is a silent character, because that would be a real challenge. Also Rocky, from the Rocky series.
