Rajeev Khandelwal talks about films, television and the future

The Jaipur-born telly actor who switched to Bollywood with the much-acclaimed Aamir is looking forward to the release of his next, co-starring Paresh Rawal. In a candid conversation with CS, he talks about films, television and the future.

RK's choice
I'm trying to do the kind of movies which makes sense at least to my conscience. I'd rather be an artist instead of a businessman in the world of cinema. That's the reason why I preferred films like Shaitaan and Soundtrack. I'll be a misfit in a loud film where the sole aim is to entertain. Although I love watching such films I don't see myself doing them.

Life post-marriage
Life hasn't changed much, per se. My way of living has altered a bit but my way of looking at life hasn't. As one grows in married life, lifestyle is bound to vary and then your friends start teasing ‘tu kitna badal gaya shaadi ke baad'! (Laughs). But in all probability, it's understandable. Fortunately, (wife) Manjiri is the perfect life-partner who is not only secure but also giving.

Silver screen mantra
There are no set formulas. I didn't move to big screen thinking it was a superior medium. I'd rather ask today's TV actors to be extremely proud of their medium as it's far more demanding and widespread than films. Unfortunately, the perception has been built that television is the poorer cousin of cinema. Working for 15-16 hours and entertaining people five days a week isn't an easy job. Given a choice, I'll stick to television but I moved on as I wanted to do something different.

Godly acts
It's not a prerequisite to have a godfather or a godmother or godsiblings in Bollywood. I strongly believe so. What's the point in having things served on the platter for you? Where's the struggle or the joy of overcoming obstacles? I would prefer to fall down, get up, run, fall down again and learn on my own.u00a0