Playing Karn was my career’s turning point, says Ahem Sharma

Ahem Sharma has emerged as one of the most subtle actors in recent times, but the software engineer from Bihar attributes everything to hard work. “One’s hard work never goes in vain, and faith in oneself guides one through all the ups and downs of life, ” says the Mahabharat actor during his Lucknow visit.

“My family, like most families, considered acting as a volatile profession. Only for them, I completed my education and got a degree. I also took a job but my focus was acting, so I started training myself as an actor, remained on the lookout for work, and soon got a break in TV. It was at that time when along with my show ‘Chand Ke Paar Chalo’ in 2009, I also got a movie ‘Blue Oranges’. Work began happening too quickly for me,” he said.

Sharma was doing well work-wise but he rose to fame playing Karn in the hit show Mahabharat and soon had an opportunity to add a touch of versatility as the grey-shaded Arjun in ‘Manmarziyan’. “As I was new and just wanted to work, I was on a roll but actually the point of being recognised by a wider medium happened while playing Karn. Though all my characters in both the media – be it film or TV – are close to my heart, but like every actor in his or her life has a turning point, mine was me playing Karn. And my film ‘1962 My Country Land’ premiered at Marche du Film of the 69th Cannes Film Festival and I felt a small sense of achievement in my career,” he said.

When asked about the ongoing ‘Me too’ movement, the Brahmarakshas actor didn’t hesitate to show his support to the cause. “Abhi bahut patte khulenge... There will be many faces that will get unmasked. But my only concern is that it should happen in all fields not just entertainment or media industry. Women face day-today harassment in many other fields too. I hope they too find the courage and come forward with their stories and tell the names of such people. These revelations will not only stop any sexual harassment in work places but will also give upcoming generations a healthy work environment.”

Currently, Sharma is busy with another mythological show, enacting the role of a warrior king. Talking about his new show, he said, “I’m lucky to play a warrior again. It truly helps one to stay connected with our roots and history.

The character of Vikramaditya in &TV’s ‘Vikram Betaal Ki Rahasya Gaatha’, reflects the strength and bravery of this king of Ujjain. I always research when I play such historical characters and it was during that I learned that he is praised by many for his intelligence and righteousness but at same time, he was constantly torn between choosing the good and the evil, so you will get to see many shades of the character. I am really enjoying portraying this powerful role and I hope that the audience love and appreciate this new version of the classic tale.”

With his Greek god-like looks, Sharma works hard on himself to maintain his physique and vigour, “I never skip my workout session even when I have a 12-hour schedule, I know a good and well-toned body is an asset for any actor today. Also, it helps us perform and play action roles to the fullest. Also, a heavy protein diet is required if you need a good build. That’s why I’m dying to taste Lakhnawi cuisine, especially chicken curry. ”

Abhi bahut patte khulenge... There will be many faces that will get unmasked. But my only concern is that it should happen in all fields not just entertainment or media industry AHEM SHARMA, ACTOR

PHOTO: DHEERAJ DHAWAN/HT