“The Ravana in &TV’s Kahat Hanuman Jai Shri Ram will be very different from what you have seen until now on television”, says Manish Wadhwa essaying the role of the mythical evil king, ‘Ravana’

Having played a variety of characters in the mythological genres on Indian television, actor Manish Wadhwa has come a long way in this industry. Hailing from Haryana, the actor is now set to play a significant role of Ravanain &TV’s Kahat Hanuman Jai Shri Ram. Manish is excited about this new role and shares how this genre enriches him and teaches him new things.

1.    Tell us about your character in the show?

I am playing the role of mighty Ravana in &TV’s Kahat Hanuman Jai Shri Ram. The Ravana which you will see will be very different from what you have seen until now. He is shown as a character who behaves in a certain way - speaks and laughs loudly and terrorises people around him. However, this time we will introduce the viewers to a much composed Ravana whose presence will be intimidating enough for people around him. You can call it kind of an experiment where ten different attributes of Ravana will be brought alive through different looks such as gyaani brahmin, magician, musician, artist, and demon, among others.

2.    How did you bag this role/character?

The makers approached me for the character of Ravana. When the team briefed me on how the character will pan out in the show, I was impressed and instantly decided to take on the role. I prefer absolute uniqueness in the roles that I take upon, and that is precisely the reason that I immediately agreed to the part of the mythical evil king Ravana.

3.    Did you have to prep for this role? If yes, tell us about the preparations.

I did a lot of reading on Ravana to be able to get into my character. Some parts were readily available on the internet, while books and other reference material helped me understand his personality better. I am well versed with the Shudh Hindi used in Mythology shows hence dialogue delivery was seamless and natural. The looks had to be worked upon, and with every look, the presentation and dialogues changed too. Initially changing from one character to another took time, but eventually, it got streamlined.

4.    How excited/nervous were you?

You can say that I was filled with mixed emotions. The biggest challenge for me was to bring a substantial essence to the character of Ravana, which has been portrayed successfully by many seasoned actors. What is essential for me is to differentiate yet bring alive his strong characteristics once again on-screen. I am quite excited and look forward to making a mark with this brand-new role. Also, playing mythological characters is an enriching experience, and you get to learn a lot from it.

5.    Have you started shooting? How has been your experience? Tell us a bit about your first day at the shoot.

The first day of the shoot was quite lovely, and I was equally excited about being given to experiment with the different attributes of Ravana. In the beginning, it was a bit hectic as it was almost like joining back post a long break, but slowly things started falling in place. On the personal front, I made sure to carry my water bottle and kettle, tiffin and induction, face mask and sanitiser to be equipped with the essential requirements.

6.    Tell us briefly about the storyline for the fresh episodes.

The show will take the viewers to the Ramayana era where Lord Rama is born. It will also witness one of the most beautiful scenes as Hanuman - the param bhakt of Rama will eventually meet his Bhagwan. With the birth of Rama, Ravana will be seen entering the track too where he will be seen comparing himself with Lord Vishnu and calling himself the supreme power. As he is seen completing his yagna and entering Lanka, the faces of Gods change in temples to resemble him. With a vast procession, the grand Rajyabhishek of Ravana takes place where he is bathed in milk, honey and flower petals.