Surya Sharma: I don’t judge my character

Harsh Chhaya and Surya Sharma

Amid mounting expectations, Surya Sharma delved deeper into the character of Rinku in the second instalment of SonyLIV's Undekhi. But the actor is not perturbed by the pressure. He says, "I got the basic structure of Rinku in season one, and that was enough for me to slip into [the character again]. Nobody knew Surya before, but now people expect me to push the envelope. So, I worked harder."

When playing a grey character, one may be tempted to critique his actions. But Sharma believes that it is important for an actor to view the character without prejudice. "I don't judge my characters, or I wouldn't be able to justify them [on screen]. I did not look at Rinku as a negative person because everything he did, he did to save his family." However, the actor agrees that he didn't arrive at this thought overnight. "Workshops are essential to get into the mindset of a character. Going with the flow is now my mantra."

Getting typecast in the industry is a predicament every actor faces. After the first edition, Sharma was often offered roles similar to Rinku, but he took the bold step to turn them down. "It is an actor's job to explore every facet of acting. Provided, directors should have the vision to look at you differently. Without any Bollywood connection, [people like me are compelled] to pick the best from the roles offered. I don't want to play Rinku again. One has to gauge and turn it down if it is not good enough. The length of the role doesn't matter to me, but the part should be memorable."