Singer-composer
Shekhar Ravjiani made his acting debut with the Sonam Kapoor starrer '
Neerja
'. In an exclusive interview with TimesOfIndia.com, the charming but humble artist speaks about his memorable role, the film and more'
Why did you choose 'Neerja' as your debut film? You had already received several offers before. It was producer Atul Kasbekar's idea to rope me in for the role of Sonam Kapoor's love interest in the film. He asked director Ram Madhvani, who is an old friend of mine, to approach me. We've known each other for almost 15 years. We have done a lot of advertising work together. When I read the script, I had tears in my eyes and I just could not say no. That's how 'Neerja' happened.
You also sang the soulful and touching number 'Gehra Ishq'. It was beautifully visualized on you and Sonam Kapoor. It was music director Vishal Khurana's idea. He composed it while I sang it. Prasoon Joshi's lyrics gave a magical touch to the song.
WATCH: This is how the real Neerja Bhanot sounded Do you like acting? I like the process actually. I like exploring things which come my way. I don't chase anything in life. I take things which come to me organically.
Are we going to see Shekhar ' the actor again? You never know. I have realized whatever comes to you organically ' there is a reason behind it. So I keep the doors open, let's see what happens.
How was it working with Sonam Kapoor? Working with Sonam was an awesome experience. She is a close friend and a wonderful human being. The whole process of working in 'Neerja' was beautiful. I shot my part in six days. It was just like a vacation as there was so much love and warmth.
So what's in store now? Vishal and I have a very interesting line-up of five films ' 'Fan', 'Befikre', 'Banjo', 'Akira' and 'Sultan'. I cannot reveal more as I'm contractually bound.
Any singles we can look forward to? Your last single was the 'Hanuman Chalisa'. Yes, a few singles are in the pipeline which will be out this year. I am also launching my own publication company ' Shekhar Ravjiani Publication Company. We have lots of books coming up from our banner.
Y
our last big project was 'Bang Bang'. What kept you busy last year? I was busy with 'Neerja,' in which I acted and sang as well. I was also working on 'Sultan' and 'Fan'.
You learned a lot from your father. Tell us more about your growing up years... My father Hasmukh Ravjiani was a businessman, but he played the accordion as his hobby. He was phenomenal. I have also learnt a lot from my guru - Ustad Niaz Ahmed Khan and Jagjit Singh Ji. I still keep on learning by reading books, attending concerts etc.
From being a participant in 'Sa Re Ga Ma Pa' in 1997 to playing the mentor in 'Sa Re Ga Ma Challenge' in 2007 just a decade later. You have come a long way. You learn everyday of your journey and evolve as a person. You grow and learn to live fearlessly. You explore things in an effort to better yourself each day.
Tell us something more about yourself. Let's start with your age... I am 39 (laughs). I am what I am. I got lots of love for my character in 'Neerja' and I feel blessed.
What do you do when not working? I am holidaying when not working. Whenever I have time, I simply board a flight and set off on a holiday.
While signing off, the handsome singer-composer-actor thanked all his fans for loving 'Neerja' and the song 'Gehra Ishq'.
LISTEN: Songs of Neerja on Gaana.com Watch: Shekhar Ravjiani touches the heart with Neerja song Gehra Ishq