On a high, Shantanu open to exciting projects

Abundle of talent, Shantanu Maheshwari is attempting all disciplines that can make him a complete package.

After winning a dance reality show and ‘Khatron Ke Khiladi’, acting in TV serials and short film, a music video with Sunny Leone, commercials he is now turning a host.

“As I have done so many things, I now have a lot of experience in terms of exposure. Music videos, daily soap, documentary, short film, and reality shows. I know how to work in them and know their challenges. I love to learn new things and continuously choose projects where I can learn more and probably that has helped me to grow,” says Shantanu, who was on a visit to Lucknow to promote acting talent hunt and kids reality show ‘India’s Best Dramebaaz’.

Is big screen his next destination?

“I have always tried to do films since my first show. I got an opportunity too but unfortunately it did not release. But, that is okay. I am still trying for it and also understand the fact how tough it is out there. When I started acting I just had dancing in my skill bag. What I am trying since then is adding more skills to my arsenal,” he says.

He has been choosing different genres. So did it happen on its own or he chose? “It’s a combination of both as I can wish to do something but offers come on their own. Initially, I was into dancing. When I came to Mumbai for studies, I wanted to become a choreographer but then I realised this is not that I wanted. Then I got an opportunity as an actor. I started loving that life where you have to learn, interact and observe people. It became my passion. So, I will say both acting and dancing are my love.”

Be it dance or stunts he has excelled in all. “I just gave my best in whatever I did. My aim was to do well, learn and enjoy the process. I ended up winning some of them was extra bonus. I have a height phobia and I participated in ‘Khatron Ke Khiladi’ for this reason. No one thought I will even reach the finals but I ended up winning it. I still have that phobia but now I have learnt to deal with it. So, everything I have done has contributed in my growth,” he says.

He is open to all avenues, even daily soaps. “Why not? If the show is good, my character is different and the content is great I will certainly go for it. Finite show, TV episodic, web series or short films, I am open to all if the content is good.”

Shantanu learnt new things from hosting kids show. “I learnt to be calm, involved and live the moment. You can’t think and do hosting as you are the ‘sutradhaar’ between judges and contestants. It helps me in improvising and creating a chemistry with them.”

The performer is also looking forward to expand his Desi Hoppers dance crew, open academies, creation of content and music videos.

HT PHOTO Danceractor Shantanu Maheshwari during his recent visit to Lucknow