Hindustan Times (Lucknow) - Hindustan Times (Lucknow) - Live
We can’t limit history to a threehour film: Praneet Bhatt
Actor Praneet Bhatt, who spelled magic in various TV shows like in Mahabharat as Shakuni and an ex- contestant of Big Boss, was here in Lucknow for the promotion of his serial ‘Porus’.
He was accompanied by Rati Pandey, his co-actor in TV show ‘Porus’. Both of them talked about the historicaldrama directed by Siddharth Kumar Tewary of ‘Mahabharat’ fame.
Married to a Lucknow girl, Praneet told HT about his love for the city. “My wife Kanchan Sharma belongs to Lucknow that’s the reason why the city is close to my heart. My inlaws stay here and I love the culture, architecture and of course the cuisine of the city,” he said.
With captivating visuals and historical drama, ‘Porus’ is one of the highest budget serials on television. The story revolves around the King Porus and the Battle of Hydaspes against Alexander The Great.
“History is a vast subject and cannot be limited to a three hour film. A TV series is the best way to let people know about the past which is mostly confined to books. This show is a combination of history and entertainment. Through this, we are trying to let people know, especially the kids about who Porus was, and his contribution in Indian history. I am playing the role of Darius, who was a Persian king and came to India as a trader,” said Praneet Bhatt.
“I always look forward to roles that are challenging, through which I can get recognition. Darius is an observant person and have limited dialogues. Expressionism is the key feature of this character and also the most challenging part”, he further added.
On being asked about his Big Boss journey, the actor said “Big Boss is no less than a jail. One can either evolve through it, or dissolve in it. It’s really the toughest reality show and its authenticity can never be questioned”.
His co-actor Rati Pandey, who has done shows like ‘Hitler Didi’ and ‘Miley Jab Hum Tum’, too, talked about her character in the show. “I am playing the role of Anusuiya, the mother of Porus who was not just a queen but also a brave warrior who wanted to save the country from foreign invaders. Before doing this show I never knew about who Anusuiya was and getting into this character was challenging for me”, said Pandey.