'Raj Kaushal would always have a passionate smile that made you feel welcome,' says Vicky Arora

A still from Akkad Bakkad Rafu Chakkar

Actor Vicky Arora who has worked in films like Khajoor Pe Atke, in Nitishastra as an antagonist starring Taapsee Pannu and in an International series Beecham House directed by Gurinder Chadha, is now seen playing the lead in Akkad Bakkad Rafu Chakkar directed by Late Raj Kaushal. He speaks to mid-day.com about his latest role, fondest memories of the Late Raj Kaushal and more...

Tell us about your role in the film.
Bhargav Sharma is the protagonist and the Chanakya of the story. It's a dream role any actor could wish for. I have a habit of recording every audition I have given into an excel sheet. It took me 6210 auditions, almost double the number in rejections and 9 years to bag a main lead role on a major platform. Bhargav could have been anybody he wanted to be, but he decides to walk the path of retribution because he blames the system for killing his parents. I had to work really hard to match the level of depth this character has. I experimented with vocal exercises, practised how he would walk, what colour of clothes he would wear and also gained a few pounds to bring him into existence. I've been receiving so much appreciation and compliments for playing Bhargav Sharma, messages like... great conviction, it was so full of passion, how my performance affected them, some even told me they shed a tear for how real it felt. I wholeheartedly thank everyone for their lovely wishes and join my hands to express my gratitude.

What are your fondest memories of the Late Raj Kaushal?
He would always have a passionate smile on his face that will make you feel welcomed. He was so full of energy that you could always see him dancing on his set. He had one liners for everyone and every situation. His belief in me for it helped me give my best. His first phone call saying, "You are doing this." He had this special thing about turning any moment into a celebration. I miss him dearly.

Any behind the scenes moments that you recall?
We started shooting in January and it's my birthday month. We were working so hard and the shoots were so busy that I thought we'd end up celebrating my birthday on set. Cut a cake may be and that's it. But later that evening I was put in a car and taken to a rooftop. Beautiful lights, a sit down buffet, live music, dance floor and a 5 tier cake. This was such a surprise and heartfelt moment for me. The entire team of Akkad Bakkad... had been planning this for days. Officially the best birthday ever.

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