23 minutes agoAuthor: Kiran Jain
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Vikas Kumar has made his own identity by acting in web series like 'Arya' and 'Kala Paani'. Recently, while talking to Dainik Bhaskar, he said that it was not at all easy for him to reach here. Initially, she had to face rejection many times due to her looks and complexion. Now he has also become a producer and is bringing new stories to the people through his production. Read some key excerpts from the conversation:
Acting journey made with difficulties
There were many expectations as soon as we stepped into a dream city like Mumbai, but this path was not so easy. In the initial days, I survived by doing odd jobs, staying in other people's houses, then in a 1 BHK with friends. It had become common to go to big production houses like Balaji with a copy and face rejections again and again. Still, I kept a record of every meeting, struggled for six-eight months, but success remained far away. During this time, the sea shore of Mumbai had become my support – this place gave me peace in times of loneliness and failures.
Facing rejection again and again due to looks and complexion
A big challenge for me was also because of 'looks' and complexion. For this reason, I was called unfit many times in Indian character-based serials. My complexion was often cited as the reason for rejection. Many times I was told in clear words – you are not fit for this character. Once I even asked – What are you making in which people like me do not fit in? Is this show from England? It was not easy to face such questions and rejections.
Still, I never saw it as a hindrance. Artists like Mithun Da, Nawazuddin Siddiqui have also faced similar rejections and have made their place. Thinking this, I also did not give up and continued on my path.
balance of family and conflict
While doing theater in Delhi, I did not get paid, I just joined the cast party. Even for big plays, one did not get more than Rs 500 per show. I had to bear the expenses of traveling for the play myself, but staying at my brother's house provided some relief. When I told my family that I was a hero, they did not believe it. This journey was very difficult, but I continued to prove myself through theater and small projects.
First chance of acting in Mumbai and recognition in CID
After theater and small projects, I got a chance to work with Yash Raj Television. Got lead roles in serials like 'Powder' and 'Khote Sikkay', but suddenly these shows stopped. Then I got a chance to work in 'CID'. There was some hesitation in the beginning, but later there were no regrets. Even today people recognize me from the character of Rajat played in 'CID'. This recognition is very special for me.
New beginning as producer and storyteller
Now I have become a producer. An audio app named Velvet has also been prepared. Although, we are not earning much from this right now, but we are focusing on good content. I have produced three short films and a few documentaries so far. Our first short film, Sonsi, has also won a National Award and qualified for the Oscars. We are taking our films to different film festivals and exploring new things.