OTT is a fantastic medium for an actor to start his career today: Amar Upadhyay

Amar Upadhyay, who became a household name as Mihir Virani in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, has had a good run in both television and films across his two-decade showbiz career and is looking forward to some upcoming web shows. The Doree actor said, “I can’t sit at home for long, I am used to working 20-25 days a month, so I never say no to any work, be it television serials or films.” On his recent trip to the city, Amar spoke to us about how OTT as a medium has bridged the gap between actors, choosing roles in films, and more. Excerpts:

Amar Upadhyay

‘Length of the character doesn’t matter, the role does’

I focus on the kind of role I am offered in a show, instead of its screen time. As an actor, I am open to experimenting across mediums. I did Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, as I was a big fan of the first movie. Anees Bazmee is a dear friend, and I wanted to explore the horror genre. I had a very good experience throughout the shoot and bonded with Tabu, very well on the sets.Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 was an exception, I didn’t mind my small role in the film. But going forward, if I am doing a film, I’d like more screen space.
I think the gap between TV and the film industry was first bridged by Amitabh Bachchan with Kaun Banega Crorepati in 2000, and since then stars from both mediums have crossed over successfully many times. OTT has made showbiz more accessible, with everyone coming together for the story, irrespective of the medium.

-On OTT bridging the gap between TV and films

TV showmakers are scared to experiment with storylines and characters. They believe that if audiences like an actor in a certain way, that should be continued. I have tried different roles on TV -from Saath Nibhaana Saathiya and Molkki to now Doree. I got to show my acting chops to the audience.

-On breaking his Kyuki Saas.. image

I used to live in Bhiloda, 150 km from Ahmedabad. I go there once every year to be home, in the lap of nature. I have come to Ahmedabad several times in the past few years, to shoot projects and have stayed here for long durations I never miss out on having a thali from my favourite restaurants every time I am here. I love the vibe of Ahmedabad, it’s a gorgeous, warm, and vibrant city.

-On why Ahmedabad is special

Doree came as a breath of fresh air in my career. It is a show I had been looking to work in for a very long time. From playing a rich, authoritative man in the past to playing Gangadhar, a poor, handicapped man fighting against all difficulties in life. I worked a lot on my look in this show, with simple clothes and salt & pepper look, hoping to break my existing image and allow the audience to accept me in such a role. It has been challenging, but I am loving the process.

-On his on-going show Doree

With the rise in OTT, the content of television and films has changed for the better. I had debuted today, I might have started with a different show. OTT is the perfect blend of TV and films, with the story shot like a movie, but streamed in episodes. Additionally, the shows are available 24x7. I think OTT is a wonderful medium for an actor to start or restart one’s career.

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