Aranyak starring Ashutosh Rana is now streaming only on Netflix. The actor who has carved an identity of his own with his diverse roles and performances recently talked about his passion for acting through his social media account.
Recalling the time when he first performed on the stage, Ashutosh wrote, “I was 4 when I first performed on a stage; I always enjoyed the spotlight! I’d even take part in local Ram-Leela plays–playing Ravan. My parents attended all my plays! Papa would say, ‘Follow this passion, it’ll lead to happiness.’ His words became my mantra.”
He adds, “And so after I graduated school, with my spiritual Guru’s encouragement, I joined NSD; honing my skill as an actor fulfilled me. And when I felt ready, I came to Mumbai to live my dream. The first few weeks were spent commuting from one corner to another, looking for work.”
Talking about bagging his first break, with the TV show, Swabhimaan, Ashutosh shared, “And it was during one of these auditions that I met Mr. Mahesh Bhatt. He offered me a role in ‘Swabhimaan’, a television serial! That was my 1st break! I couldn’t wait to see myself on screen! Papa told me, ‘I know your talent, make the most of this opportunity!’ I tried to live upto my potential & when I saw myself on screen… I still get shivers when I think of that feeling. After Swabhimaan, I got a lot of work! And although I wished to get longer screen time, maine chhote kaam bhi bade man se kiye.”
“One practice I followed was never comparing my journey with other actor’s. And so, after 4 years of persevering, one day Mahesh Sir called me to his office & offered me the lead role as a villain in ‘Dushman!’ I was so overwhelmed that I asked him, ‘Can I scream?’ When he said yes, I yelled with happiness! Then I promised Sir, ‘I’ll win you a Filmfare award,’ And I did! I recall giving my ‘Thank you’ speech; it felt surreal…” stated the actor.
Ashutosh concluded by saying, “And since Dushman’s release, my career took off! Every role I’ve played is etched in my heart– be it Agrawal in Ghulam or Nityanand in Simmba. I love to act–mujhe chota bada kaisa bhi role dedo, I’ll do it with the same zeal. We’re entertainers. A person could be deeply upset, but if they see a great performance, for that moment, life is good again. Yeh superpower sirf actors ke paas hai!”
We all love Ashutosh and appreciate his passion for acting and poetry.
