‘I OWE MY SUCCESS TO MY PARENTS’

Actor Aniket Vishwasrao, who turned a year older yesterday, says he’s happy with the way his 17year career has shaped up

When actor Aniket Vishwasrao was torn in two over choosing between acting and a traditional job, it was his parents who gave him the confidence and support to pursue his passion. Seventeen years later, Aniket says he cannot thank them enough for their guidance and help. “I shot my first professional serial in 2000, and after that I was sceptical about taking acting up as a profession. The profession comes with its own insecurities and instabilities. It was my father who told me to choose what I enjoy doing. And, I asked myself what I liked, and I realised that I was and am truly passionate about acting.”

The Poshter Girl (2016) actor adds that the thrill and adventure of acting has not faded for him. “I thoroughly enjoy being an actor. I get to meet new people. I learn new things every day. Each day brings a lot of surprises. I couldn't have asked for more,” he says.

The actor will be next seen in Priyadarshan Jadhav’s Maska, where he is paired opposite Prarthana Behere. Speaking about the film and working with Priyadarshan, Aniket says, “I believe a director can make or break a film. I have seen great directors take a mediocre script and make it a hit and mediocre directors take a great script and make it a flop. So, for me, along with the script, a director’s vision and involvement is very important.”

When asked about what he looks for in roles before signing a film, the actor says, “I don't believe in one-scene magic or short appearances. I have often been offered roles where I am told, ‘The story revolves around you, the film starts with you. But you die in the first half’. I prefer lead roles where I have the responsibility of the film.”

Aniket enjoys being on sets and interacting with his team as much as he enjoys acting. “I believe that inputs from the staff is very important. They are our actual audience, and it is important to hear what they have to say. I try and incorporate some of their slangs and dialogues too.”

I believe a director can make or break a film. I have seen great directors take a mediocre script and make it a hit. ANIKET VISHWASRAO, ACTOR