Memorable Experience with Co-Stars

Shooting alongside Akshaye Khanna and Saif Ali Khan was a remarkable experience. The chemistry we shared was exceptional, and I can't envision working on this film with anyone else. The warmth among us is likely to resonate with viewers. Farhan Akhtar, as a first-time director, displayed impressive maturity and clarity in his vision, knowing exactly what he wanted from us.

Contributions Beyond Acting

I wasn't fatigued after Lagaan; my involvement in Dil Chahta Hai was purely as an actor. I assisted Farhan with whatever he needed, but I often feel uneasy discussing my level of involvement. If I claim to be involved, people might assume I directed it, which isn't the case. So, I prefer to say I was engaged as an actor without overshadowing Farhan's contributions.

Embracing the Role of Akash

Playing the character of Akash was a joy. Initially, Farhan didn't specify which role he envisioned for me, but after hearing the script, I was intrigued. Although he intended for me to portray Siddharth, I felt I had already explored similar characters. I expressed my interest in Akash, which was a challenging role that required me to rethink my acting approach.

Character Depth and Transformation

Akash may not be the most likable character at first, as he struggles with relationships and can be quite superficial. However, I believe he isn't inherently bad; a significant romantic experience reveals his better side. I appreciated the character's evolution, especially his moment of courage to apologize to Siddharth.

The Importance of Sincerity in Performance

In scenes like the opera in Sydney, I focused on delivering what the script demanded. Authenticity in performance is crucial; when an actor portrays a character sincerely, the audience connects with that effort. A genuine performance allows viewers to believe in the character's reality.

Evaluating My Work

It's challenging to declare Dil Chahta Hai as my best work, as I've received praise for various films throughout my career. Each project has elicited strong reactions, making it difficult to choose one over the others.

Comparing Performances

While I feel I achieved my goals in Dil Chahta Hai, comparing it to Lagaan is tough due to their contrasting natures. I am satisfied with my performance in Lagaan, but I wished for more preparation time. In contrast, I had two months to prepare for Dil Chahta Hai, allowing me to align my appearance with Farhan's vision.

Character Representation

Akash's look was reflective of the youth culture of that time. Although I was not 18, I could relate to the mindset of that generation. Akash, being in his mid-20s, was younger than my actual age, but I felt comfortable embodying him.

Urban Sensibility of the Film

Some critics label Dil Chahta Hai as an urban film, but I see it as a reflection of Farhan's sensibility. While not everyone may relate to the characters, Farhan created a film that resonates with his perspective. It's challenging to craft a film that appeals universally, and Farhan's approach was authentic to him.

Evolving Audience Expectations

As times change, I strive to engage in diverse yet universally appealing films. Projects like Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak and Lagaan have all been innovative for their time, and I am pleased they have resonated with audiences.

Meeting Audience Expectations

I find joy in creating films that I believe in, and I am grateful for the audience's appreciation. I understand that if I stop delivering quality work, their support will wane.

Instincts Over Formulas

I don't follow a specific formula; I trust my instincts. It's gratifying to see that audiences across the country appreciate a different style of entertainment, which motivates me to continue exploring new avenues in my work.

Playing Diverse Characters

As actors, we often portray characters that differ significantly from our real selves. In both Lagaan and Dil Chahta Hai, I played younger roles, which is common in the industry. The key is to convincingly embody the character, regardless of age.