Mohit Raina on not doing television: I have an interesting alternative to choose from

Actor Mohit Raina became a household name with his portrayal of Lord Shiva in the mythological show Devon Ke Dev Mahadev. But he hasn’t been seen in a television show for quite some time. Instead, he’s been busy with films and concentrating on web projects. His recent release, Uri: The Surgical Strikes, alongside actor Vicky Kaushal, hit the bulls’ eye at the box office.

Mohit agrees it was a conscious decision on his part to stay away from television. “I want to enjoy this field [referring to the OTT platforms]. I have always said that this phase is best for anybody working in the [entertainment] industry. We have so much going on in every sphere [and there are] so many avenues [that] one can really experiment and satisfy their creative needs. Television shows require longterm commitments and right now, I have an alternative to choose from. I am juggling with that,” says Mohit, who was recently in the Capital.

However, he doesn’t feel that better roles are being offered on the web, compared to small screen.

“There are brilliant shows on TV as well, but you have to commit for at least nine to 10 months. In web series, you go on the floor for two months, and then move on. In TV, you play a character for a longer period. The internet space is interesting. I am trying to enjoy it and make the best of it,” says Mohit.

The actor, who started his acting journey with the TV show, Meher, has been a part of the industry for over 14 years now. Looking back at his career fondly, the 36-year-old insists that he is “not done with acting” just yet.

“It has been a fulfilling journey from where I started. It feels great when you look back. When you start initially, you expect two square meals and make things go okay, in your favour. When things happen in such a way, when you are loved and appreciated, you ask for more,” he says.

Having said that, he adds, “it’s a long journey that goes on, there’s no full stop or comma. It’s a journey, not about hundred, thousand metres. It’s a marathon.”

There are brilliant shows on TV as well, but you have to commit for at least nine to 10 months. In web series, you go on the floor for two months, and then move on.

ACTOR