In an exclusive interaction with ETimes, Vikrant Massey talks about the show, his keen interest in Indian history and views on politics and more. Excerpts…
While we have seen you on the small and big screen many times, this is your first network show as a host. How does it feel?
It feels great to be associated with Times Now Navbharat for their show ‘Kahani Navbharat Ki’. It’s a beautiful show in terms of all aspects as it touches on the idea of informing and intriguing the audience and celebrating 75 years of proud independence. It’s so important to share these important anecdotes which are a part of our culture. I take a lot of pride to associate myself with this show. Just the fact that it’s so highly researched, it’s something every Indian out there should know – the untold stories with unsung heroes which we might not be aware of. I am happy to have this opportunity to share our proud history and culture, this is primarily the reason why I came onboard with this show.
The show is going to focus on many untold stories of new India in simple words. How much interest do you have in Indian politics or history?
Honestly, my interest in Indian history grew after being a part of this show. Back in school, like everyone else, I hated history, but when I started acting and referring to a lot of historical facts, cultural ideas and books, I started getting interested in history. I do read a lot about Indian history and world history. But I don’t have any interest in Indian politics, I see it from a very personal and very different lens. I, in no way, through this network would want to influence anyone with my political ideology. So, I would refrain from commenting on that.
Go on…
I am a firm believer of the fact that someone who doesn’t know or understand history is somewhere down the line bound to commit the same mistakes again. I think life is too short to commit the same mistake. In this fast world, we should try to learn from each other’s mistakes to lead to a better future.
When we talk about your acting career, one can’t simply miss out on your success on the OTT platform. How would you describe your journey?
The journey has been very satisfying so far. I’m really happy with how my career has shaped up across divisions, whether it is television, cinema or the OTT platform. I’m really happy with the kind of stories I have shared, with the kind of people I have associated with. I think I have a lot more yet to be done and I’m really looking forward to it.
You recently starred with Taapsee Pannu in ‘Haseen Dillruba’. In one of the interviews, Taapsee revealed how other actors rejected the film because of the hero. Were you aware of it? Does it bother you?
I think Taapsee has already clarified this thing and she is absolutely right about this thing that her words were misinterpreted. I think people should go back to the interview and refer to that. I think there’s no fruit to it, what she meant to say was something else and what people got out of it was completely off from the context of it.
What about upcoming projects?
I have a few films up for release, I am looking forward to ‘Love Hostel’. I am also excited about ‘Mumbaikar’. I also have ‘Forensic’ with Radhika Apte. I now have ‘Kahani Navbharat Ki’.
