“Communication can fix most things. For the rest, there’s hugs.”

His first film was with Michael Keaton called Worth, reveals Vihaan Samat, who studied acting in New York for four years, before getting picked as one of the 12 finalists for an ABC Talent Showcase. This fuelled his confidence for a career in acting, and he moved back to Mumbai.

He faced cautious scepticism from his parents. But they grew supportive once they realised he was going to follow his passion. His grandparents helped, says the Kolkataborn, Mumbai-raised actor. He quickly landed a role in the web series Mismatched, and then, the lead in the show, Eternally Confused And Eager For Love, co-produced by Zoya Akhtar. “I dream about working with her. It was surreal when we fist bumped after my first take,” he says.

In his free time, Vihaan is travelling, or in the gym, or in front of a screen. “I’d love a house near the beach so I can swim or play beach volleyball all day,” Vihaan signs off.

List three things nobody knows about you?

1. I used to work as an extra artist, and as a study coach, to earn money and for experience, when I was in college in the USA.

2. I love cleaning, I find it therapeutic. 3. I paint really well.

Your midnight munch?

Popcorn, banana chips, almonds and mint chocolate.

Who do you like spending your time with?

My nani.

One relationship rule you follow?

Communication can fix most things. For the rest, there’s hugs.

What is the most extreme thing you have done for love?

I made a painting of her. It worked.

Your most memorable celebrity encounter?

When I was in class 9, I went to a DVD store and John Abraham walked in with some friends. I was very shy back then.

A fashion trend you don’t follow?

Crocs.

You get your kicks from...?

Finding a new obsession on YouTube. I’m obsessed with gold refining videos.

—Dinesh Raheja

PANDIT AMOGH Vihaan Samat poses exclusively for this HT Brunch column