Mr. Aasif Khan has made it big in the world of web-series and mainstream cinema through sheer hard work and determination and has only risen high ever since. Here is his interview with Desi Kaanoon-
Q 1.) What is your character in Jamtara like and how did you prepare for it?
A 1.) I think that it needed immense preparation. In the reel, you are not playing the character, you are the character. For ‘Jamtara’, my preparation was online because I was shooting for ‘India’s Most Wanted’ at that time. I was not able to attend any workshop for the show but my director was kind enough to send preparation material. I watched hundreds of online news reporting videos and got the hold of the language. In addition, I started reading local newspapers in the local language to prepare for my character. It is crucial to understand the background of the character and align yourself with that background.
Q 2.) Your character of a groom and your iconic dialogue in the web-series Panchayat has turned out to be very popular on social media. How do you feel about it?
A 2.) I was taken aback by the response on social media. I only had two scenes in the show and I thought in the back of my mind that it was not enough to establish my character. Guess, I was wrong. I was in the hospital for a family member and suddenly started receiving memes, messages for my character. It means a lot when people appreciate your honest efforts and love your work.
Q 3.) What is that one dream role you want to take up in the future?
A 3.) There is no specific dream role that I have in mind. As an actor, you always want to try different themes and characters. In this industry, change is the only constant. It is imperative that we explore ourselves and pull ourselves out of our comfortable zones. My last two characters were innocent and I would love to try something new. A role where the character is somewhat cunning, intelligent, and smart is something I am looking forward to.
Q 4.) What are the prospective projects that you are currently working on and when can the viewers expect them to release?
A 4.) All the prospective projects are at hold due to the lockdown. I am trying to shoot few promos and music videos from my home. The next big thing is Mirzapur 2 and I have no idea about its release date. I am also playing a supportive role in a Balaji Motion Pictures and Sikhya Entertainment film named ‘Pagglait’. Saniya Malhotra is playing the protagonist character in this film. There are more projects but due to no official announcement, I cannot name them. As soon as the lockdown opens, I will go and shoot for them.
Q 5.) You have equal experience in what we call as the trio of entertainment- Films, Web-Series, and Short Films. How does the preparation of an actor change according to the format?
A 5.) I think the preparation does not change according to the format. My first acting stint was in a short film that gave me recognition. An actor needs to know everything about its character. Understanding the background and behavior of the character is crucial. Exploring the ‘Moment of Truth’ of the character is the main thing that separates performers from actors. The maximum homework you do for a character, the better you play it on screen.
Q 6.) How important is exploring diverse themes and different subjects while doing theatre? What role has theatre played in your acting career?
A 6.) Theatre has played a major role in my acting career. It is raw and natural. Every film has to go through several certifications, censorships and editing. However, theatre has removed every barrier and filter between the actors and the audience. The experience is spiritual. The feeling of a curtain call in theatre has given me more satisfaction than any film or web-series, for that matter. We perform Shakespeare’s play in Rajasthani named ‘Kasumal Sapno’. This means a magical dream at midnight. My role is that of a ‘blacksmith’ who belongs to a very small village. The portrayal of Innocence is so beautifully captured through the play that it cannot be put into words.
Q 7.) Your role in the much popular and recent web series ‘Paatal Lok’ as Kabir M has been critically acclaimed. What were your thoughts about portraying the role while the series was being shot?
A 7.) It does not matter how many more shows and films I do, Kabir M will always be a special part of my acting career. I always tried to find a meeting point between Aasif Khan and Kabir M. It was hard but after several workshops, I was able to find a point. Kabir M suffered from a personal loss and I remembered a death in my own family. We finally met and I felt the loss as I did in reality. I learned driving for this web series. I also performed some uncomfortable scenes during the stint but it all came out well. It is imperative to get out of your comfort and do what is best for your character and the show.
Aasif Khan