“I would love to host a TVshow” says television’s bad boy Chetan Hansraj to be seen in &TV’s Laal Ishq
Laal Ishq is a relatively new concept bringing together two most loved genres by Indian audiences. What are your thoughts on it?
Laal Ishq is an impressive blend of two strong genres – love and supernatural. The Indian audience tends to perceive supernatural as horror, though the show justifies the difference between the two. I haven’t worked on anything similar previously, so the show concept excited me. Also, the fact that it’s an episodic format adds to the show’s uniqueness. It’s a delight for the audience, since they have been offered with new faces and new stories every weekend. I watched all the episodes of Laal Ishq until now before taking up the role and I really think that they are brilliantly shot.
Can you briefly tell us about the character you’re playing?
I am playing the character of an elder brother who has fallen into the dark side of black magic. Due to this, the family has disowned him and has left him with bitter feelings against them.
Have you ever been to a tantrik or heard any bizarre story about one?
No, I’ve never been to a tantrik, nor do I believe in the idea of black magic. All the stories I’ve heard on the same from people who I know also haven’t been great. Ironically, this is the second time that I will be seen playing the role of a tantrik on screen. It’s surprising how my grey characters have given me an opportunity to play such roles (laughs).
You are known to portray negative characters in a number of television shows. Is there a different character that you’d like to explore?
I would certainly want to play a cop or a detective, if given a chance. Also, I would love to host a television show. It may not be as easy as it seems, but I would definitely want to give it a shot.
Who is your favourite villain in Bollywood and why?
My favourite villain would definitely be Amjad Khan. I’ve never seen anyone play the role of a villain with the same energy and enthusiasm. When it comes to negative roles, I believe no one can beat him. He has made a mark for himself and it would definitely be a challenge for anyone to match up to his work.
Do you believe in supernatural elements? Have you ever experienced anything supernatural?
I wouldn’t say supernatural elements, but I do believe in spirits which are a part of our being. There are both good and bad spirits as a part of the universe. Although I have never experienced the power of it myself, I do believe that they exist.
Have you ever played a spooky prank on anyone? If not, then one person you would want to play the prank on?
Yes, I have – mostly during Halloween. My friends and I love to play these ghost pranks on random passers-by, we scare them first and have a good laugh later.
One classic love story you would want to give a supernatural twist to? And who would you like to star with in that story?
Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam. It would be amusing to see a supernatural twist with Salman Khan being a part of it.
Your favourite actor from the millennial lot?
Ranveer Singh is the most versatile actor amongst the millennial lot, a true powerhouse of talent I must say. All his recent films have showcased the stellar performer that he is.
Apart from acting what are the three things that you’re good at?
Not many know about this, but apart from acting I am good at script writing and computer graphics. When I have time at hand between projects, I like to make the most of it by learning new things. I have also learnt 3D game development which I am good at. I will soon be starting a small venture for games and VFX.
Any future projects?
I’m currently doing another show on television and also working on an upcoming movie starring Saif Ali Khan called Kaaptan.
