Scroll through your Twitter feed and chances are you’ll find more than a fair share of social media users raving about Manav Kaul in Ajeeb Daastaans. The actor, usually associated with sombre roles, has now become the darling of netizens, courtesy his lover boy act in Kayoze Irani’s segment, Ankahi, in the Netflix anthology. 

He admits playing Kabir in the charming love story has been a refreshing change of pace. “People offered me more serious and complex roles because of my theatre background. I want to let the world know that I also have this side to me as [a romantic] actor,” says Kaul, who plays a speech- and hearing-impaired photographer in the drama. “[Before the shoot], I was wondering whether I can pull off this role. It was difficult because [I had to learn] the sign language, and the character came with a lot of complexity. I kept asking Kayo [director] if I can do this, and I am glad I attempted a role that I have never done before. There is something [endearing] about love stories, and this character is close to my heart.”