These days, actor Vishal Aditya Singh is seen in a pivotal role in All Right TV's vertical show 'Dil Se Deewangi Tak'. What makes the show different is that despite being presented in a vertical format, its story does not end like a short-form series but continues like a daily television soap.
Recently, Vishal appeared for the show's promotion, where he spoke candidly about the show's format, his co-stars, shooting experience, television and films, reality shows, his daily routine, dream role, and more. Here's what he had to say...
What has your experience been like with the vertical format of 'Dil Se Deewangi Tak'?
It is a different kind of experiment in itself. Usually, when a vertical show is made, the story ends within 60 or 90 minutes, but here we have tried to create a long and continuous story. It has been written just like a television daily soap; the only difference is that the format is vertical. The treatment of the story, characters, and drama is largely the same.
How was your experience working with your co-stars?
It has been wonderful. All my co-stars are very good, and everyone knows their job. The best part is that everyone has already worked in the industry and has experience of working on sets. When you work with people like that, your job becomes much easier because everyone knows how to perform a scene and how to manage time.
Tell us about your character and the other characters in the show.
I am playing Abir Raichand in the show. Jaan Khan is playing my younger brother, while Yukti Kapoor is playing the female lead, Siya Singhania.
How will the love story progress in the show?
There is definitely a love story, and there is going to be a major twist ahead. When you watch the show, you will get to know more about Siya and Abir's story. There is also another track involving Shivaay, Riva and Payal, which has some very interesting twists coming up.
How much fun do you have on the sets?
We have a lot of fun, but the schedule of a vertical show is quite hectic. You hardly get a chance to breathe. As soon as one scene ends, another one starts. The good thing is that the scenes are completed very quickly, so you don't feel extremely tired.
What has your experience of working in television been like?
Working in television makes many things easier because we are used to working for 12-13 hours. There is no luxury here. You quickly do four or five scenes. In that sense, television is a great training ground. Television also pays well, and if you are interested in learning, you can develop a lot as an actor. If I am playing the hero on television, just imagine how many different kinds of scenes I get to perform in a year. That really helps develop your craft.
What do you think is the biggest difference between films and television?
Films are the real test for an actor. Your role and performance are exposed to a great extent, which is why working in films is not easy, and many people do not make it that far. But films also need something new-a new story, a new director, new technicians, a new approach, and new actors. Only then will audiences get to see something different.
Do you think reality shows are putting pressure on films today?
I don't think films and reality shows have a direct connection. They are two different mediums. A reality show has its own audience, and films have their own. Just because people like a reality show does not mean it will affect films. The audience wants to see new things. When something sells in the market, more content of that kind gets made. That is a normal process.
How do you look at the success of reality shows like 'Khatron Ke Khiladi'?
This time, Season 15 of 'Khatron Ke Khiladi' has received a lot of love from the audience. We introduced some twists, such as the Old vs New concept, and brought in tasks that made things more difficult for the contestants. Perhaps that is why people found the show challenging and enjoyed it. When a show becomes number one, the entire team is very happy. Ultimately, it is possible because of the love of the audience.
Do you think reality shows are suitable for children?
I believe it is the parents' responsibility to decide what children should watch. If there is a television at home, parents need to decide what they are showing their children and what they are not. Children also need to understand what is right, what is wrong, and what is bad in order to understand the world. They should see certain examples from life. But making a six-year-old child sit in front of the television or constantly giving them screen time is also a family responsibility.
How does your day begin as an actor?
If I have an 8 a.m. shoot, I have to wake up at 5:30 a.m. because I go to the gym in the morning. If the shoot is at 12 noon, I wake up around 9:30 a.m. I also try to go to the gym on my days off. If I get a long break, I focus on other things. I have always been interested in learning the guitar. I also enjoy writing and watching content. For the past six months, I have been listening to different kinds of podcasts. I enjoy learning and discovering new things.
Do you have a dream role?
I have played around 15-16 characters so far, and there are millions of different characters in the world. How can I choose just one dream role? I want to play all kinds of characters. I will know what my dream role is when a film comes along and I get to play that particular character.
How do you look at your journey so far?
My journey has been great. I believe that a person should be honest with themselves. Mahendra Singh Dhoni also says that being honest with yourself is very important. You should be able to judge yourself and understand whether you are capable of doing something or not. If you are capable, that is great. But if you are not, then you need to understand what you have to do to improve yourself.
What kind of films do you enjoy, and whose work do you admire?
I really enjoy horror films. Apart from that, I like watching different kinds of films. When it comes to actors, I really admire the work of actors like Sean Penn and Denzel Washington. However, rather than following one particular actor, I prefer their films and the kind of performances they deliver.
What are your plans for Raksha Bandhan this year?
We will celebrate Raksha Bandhan with a lot of happiness. Those who can afford it can buy new clothes, and those who cannot can simply wash their old clothes and wear them. You don't need money to celebrate a festival.
I feel that we are becoming too progressive and sometimes we take our traditions too lightly. We should celebrate festivals because they are meant to bring happiness. Rakhi is not about worshipping someone; it is about making that relationship feel special. Just like we celebrate our mothers and fathers on Mother's Day and Father's Day, Raksha Bandhan is a day to celebrate the bond between brothers and sisters.
What would you like to say to your fans?
You all have given me so much love, and I always say that the more love you give me, the more love I will give you in return. That is my policy. 'Dil Se Deewangi Tak' is currently on air. Please watch it. I guarantee that you will really enjoy the show. Thank you so much.