I am choosy about scripts, not numbers: Vishal Hegdae

The actor talks about his 20-year journey in the Kannada film industryActor Vishal Hegdae has completed two decades in Sandalwood. Since his debut in Ninagagi in 2002, the actor has come a long way and is now looking to perform roles that keep him grounded in these changing times.
“It has been an illustrious journey. Without Ninagagi, I wouldn’t have gotten so far in my career. I come from a family of hoteliers; cinema happened accidentally. But I am happy with the progress. I have done 24 films, albeit taking a break to establish a business in Mumbai, between 2014 and 2017. People thought I quit movies, but that wasn’t the case. I used to come to Bengaluru every 45 days. I am always choosy about scripts and production houses, not numbers,” he says.

Keeping up with technology
When Vishal started acting, cinema was shot on reel. “So we only had one or two takes. Now everything is digital. We are surrounded by cameras, and sometimes it drains an artiste’s energy to put in extra effort. But we have to keep up with modern technology, to compete with others. Social media’s influence is huge too,” he states.

‘The role is everything’
He started playing character roles with Hudugaru. “I want to play any character that has an impact on the movie. More than being on a screen, I want to remain etched in the audience’s mind,” he adds.

In the pipeline
Vishal will act in two films, Gana and Ringa Ringa Roses, this year. “In Gana, I will be seen in a retro look. I play a jovial doctor in Ringa Ringa Roses, which has a unique subject. I am looking forward to doing more films this year,” he says.

On the OTT bandwagon
The actor is open to acting in web series. “There are many avenues available to act now. This wasn’t the case when I started my career. Even the pool of talent has increased. So, it’s a tough competition. I am getting offers from television too,” he says.