Unlike films, TV lets you be in front of the audience daily: Vikee Shah

Vikee Shah, who is currently portraying the role of Lord Shiva in the Gujarati TV show Gangasati Panbai, says it has been “a fabulous learning experience.” The actor from Vadodara, who has done Gujarati films like Chupp, Lapet, Short Circuit, Suryansh, and Aapne Toh Chhie Bindaas, says, “Ketan bhai, the project head of the show, was under the impression that I only do films now. He told me that about 200 actors had auditioned for this role, and they were looking for someone with good height and physique. I grabbed the opportunity and it’s the first time I am portraying a god on the small screen. In my previous Gujarati TV shows like Shyam Dhun Lagi Re, I played the villain, fighting against the gods. So, it’s a wonderful opportunity. Till now, I have done four Gujarati TV shows. I would love to do more TV shows now. Unlike films, where you have to wait after completing the shoot, TV allows you to be in front of the audience daily.”

Vikee adds, “It’s a very good team, and Soham sir, the producer, has made sure that the VFX is of excellent quality. People have loved the show, and the TRPs have been encouraging. While this genre always presents its own set of challenges, I am enjoying the experience. I am playing two characters in this show, which is a bonus.”

‘It’s still a learning phase for D-Town’

Vikee, whose last D-Town release was Chupp (2024), says, “Currently, I am shooting for a horror comedy. It’s a genre I have not explored before and so, I am excited. I have also started writing screenplays and it’s an enriching experience. I have also shot promos for Gujarati TV shows as a director. I want to be versatile as an artiste and do multiple things. I am keen to do good work in all mediums and am auditioning for the same. I have even done Hindi shows like Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon?, Balika Vadhu and Aadalat at the beginning of my career. It has been a joy to explore both TV and films.”

Talking about the current phase of D-Town, he feels, “I think it’s still a learning phase for the industry. Right now, out of 10 releases, only two or three are doing really well. We need better promotional strategies. While some makers have mastered it, others are still learning. I am sure our industry will reach greater heights soon.”