Exclusive - Srimad Ramayan's Nikitin Dheer: The atmosphere in our country reflects a sense of pride among people in identifying themselves as Sanatani
Nikitin Dheer, who is one of the finest actors in the entertainment industry and who has always played power-packed roles on-screen, is currently seen playing the role of Ravan in Shrimad Ramayan. The actor joined ETimes TV for a quick conversation where he spoke about his daughter’s reaction to his look, bagging the role of Ravan and his family's reaction. The actor shared an interesting story about bagging the role of Ravan and revealed that like Ravan he is also an ardent bhakt of Lord Shiva and has a huge tattoo on his forehand. (Photo: Instagram)
On his look as Ravan and how people get intimidated
People tend to judge others based on their appearance, whether I have a beard for a role like Thangaballi in Chennai Express or I'm clean-shaven. Regardless of my looks, some individuals still feel intimidated by me. However, my one-and-a-half-year-old daughter consistently shows love and acceptance, regardless of my appearance. Her unwavering reaction brings me immense joy and has led me to prioritize my own happiness over the opinions of others, recognizing that such judgments are simply part of my job. (Photo: Instagram)
Siddharth Kumar Tewary envisioned Ravan as raw and barbaric
Siddharth Kumar Tewary envisioned Ravan as raw and barbaric, and I'm dedicated to doing justice to that portrayal. I've strived to make the appearance as realistic as possible. Understanding that television roles require a longer commitment, I ensured to complete prior commitments and informed potential offers that the beard would remain. Surprisingly, many productions were entirely supportive of the raw look, and some even offered me roles specifically because of it. It's gratifying to see that my interpretation has garnered positive attention and led to new opportunities. (Photo: Instagram)
The role of Ravan was meant for me
Honestly, I believe the role of Ravan was meant for me, almost as if the universe had orchestrated it. It's something I had silently wished for and manifested within myself. Despite keeping my desire to play the character to myself, I've always been drawn to the role, having studied it extensively. Interestingly, within 15 days of getting a tattoo of Lord Mahadev, something I've long wanted, I was offered the role of Ravan in Shrimad Ramayan. It felt like destiny had aligned perfectly, fulfilling a major wish of mine. (Photo: Instagram)
His curiosity about playing Ravan on-screen
I was thrilled about the role because of Siddharth Kumar Tewary's vision. I asked him how his portrayal of Ravan would differ from previous versions, given the many actors who've played the role before. He explained his plan to introduce new stories not seen on TV before and assured me that he would depict Ravan authentically, sticking to the facts from our religious texts like the Puranas. (Photo: Instagram)
On managing outdoor shoots and staying away from family
I've been in the industry for quite some time now, and I've often been involved in outdoor shoots, especially when working on South Indian films where shoots can be lengthy. However, here with Shrimad Ramayan, the production house was very organized. They ensured that we have time to return to our families every 5 or 6 days. This helped me recharge my batteries. It's rare for me to go without seeing my family for more than 10 days straight, but it's manageable, especially since everyone in my family is involved in acting and understands the demands of the industry. (Photo: Instagram)
On being away from young daughter - As actors, we understand that our careers have a limited shelf life
As actors, we understand that our careers have a limited shelf life. Since my daughter came into my life, I've been even more driven to work harder. I believe this feeling is universal among parents; we all want to provide the best for our children, ensuring they don't have to endure the struggles we did. It's a part of who I am to want to give my all, and I consider myself realistic and practical in striving to achieve that. (Photo: Instagram)
On father Pankaj Dheer's response
My father has watched every episode of Ramayan and has loved it immensely. He even called Siddharth a couple of times to discuss the show, and they had some meaningful conversations. Siddharth is a superb listener, understanding the perspectives of those who come from an era where details were meticulously examined. My father has sincerely loved it and for me, that is the greatest victory. He is my biggest critic. (Photo: Instagram)
I had tears in my eyes
Unhone mujhse ek baat kahi that you performed the role of even better than me. Main bhi itna accha nahi kar paata. That was my biggest thing. Shooting in Umbergaon, I vividly recall the moment when I had tears in my eyes. His acknowledgement meant the world to me, particularly because I grew up watching him portray Karn. I witnessed firsthand the immense hard work he put into his craft. Knowing this, I was determined to ensure that I brought the same level of dedication to the table, no matter the circumstances. (Photo: Instagram)
On wife Kratika's reaction
Kratika is absolutely proud of me. I remember when she saw the first look test at our house, where I was dressed as Ravan. She got goosebumps and told me that this would be something extraordinary and that I looked very good. When she saw the final telecast, she expressed how proud she was of me. I jokingly responded, saying that now I have bragging rights. I told her, "Tum Jhansi ki Rani kar chuki ho, dad has played Karn Aur ab Ravan Accha hai toh now I’ve bragging rights." (I told her, "You've portrayed Jhansi ki Rani, Dad has played Karn, and now that I've done justice to Ravan, I can confidently say I've attempted this zone.") (Photo: Instagram)
On people's interest towards mythology: There's a sense pride among people in identifying themselves as 'Sanatani'
Mujhe lagta hai desh mein abhi jis tarah ka prachalan hai logon ko Iss baat mein garv hai ke Woh Sanatani hai or Bhartiya hai. I believe that the current atmosphere in our country reflects a sense of pride among people in identifying themselves as Sanatani or Bharatiya (Indian). This pride in their cultural and religious heritage is driving increased consumption of content related to these themes and also contributing to greater awareness. As a result, there is a growing momentum in this direction. (Photo: Instagram)
It's become increasingly challenging to deceive or mislead the audience
Nowadays, people are quick to praise individuals who speak sensibly and criticize those who talk nonsense. There's been a noticeable increase in intelligence among the general populace. During the lockdown, people had the opportunity to consume content from around the world, including world cinema, which has broadened their perspectives. As a result, it's become increasingly challenging to deceive or mislead the audience. (Photo: Instagram)
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