INTERVIEW: 'Shakuni' should not be looked as a villain, says Praneet

Samarth Srivastava

Lucknow: The world knows Shakuni as a mastermind and a gambler but Telly actor Praneet Bhatt has different views about the character which he dazzlingly portrayed in Star Plus’ 'Mahabharata'. He does not see villain in Shakuni and finds him the best brother who conspired Mahabharat for taking the revenge of his sister Gandhari.

Praneet Bhatt is back as Darius in one of the most expensive TV shows, 'Porus'. He, along with his co-star Rati Pandey (Anusuya) was in the city of nawabs for the promotions of his show.

Made at a staggering budget of Rs 500 crore, Sony TV's 'Porus' has been a highly anticipated show. The show is a tale of the Battle of Hydaspes, which was fought between King Porus and Macedonian conqueror Alexander the Great.

Newstrack.com had a Q and A session with ex-Bigg Boss contestant Praneet Bhatt.

Tell us about your show ‘Porus’?

'Porus' is the story of Indian brave heart who halted Alexander The Great’s invasion of India with his valour, nobleness and statesmanship.

What were the challenges you guys faced while shooting for such a high budget show?

It was a challenge to bring alive the Macedonian era and the team seems to have spared no efforts. A lot of shooting was done in Thailand, where the Jhelum river was shown. Yes, it is a challenge to recreate the Golden Age of Indian history, when India was known as the Sone Ki Chidiya and the Macedonian Era.

How much 'Porus' is different from 'Mahabharata' in context with your character?

I played Shakuni in Mahabharat and he was a joker. There is no bigger role than Shakuni as he lived every emotion. On the other hand, Darius was a villain but for India not for his country Persia.

In the recent times you have been seen portraying grey shades character more. Any specific reason?

Look, I do not pick roles on the basis of negative or positive. I choose those roles which can be inspiring for others. I do not find Shakuni as a villain; he was the best brother owing to which, he conspired Mahabharata in the love and revenge of his sister Gandhari.

How much are you connected with Lucknow and what attracts you in the city of nawabs?

I entered wedlock here with Kanchan in 2015 and that is a lifelong connection from the city. I like the tasty tundey kebabs, mouth-watering biryani and the architect of Lucknow is praiseworthy.

Is Bigg Boss' P3G (Puneet Issar, Pritam Singh, Praneet Bhatt and Gautamj Gulati) bond still maintained?

Yes, we are good friends. I just did a film with Puneet ji which is about to release.

Have you got any inspiration from TV series like 'Game of Thrones' and 'Vampire Diaries'?

It is a proper daily soap, a history, but I can assure you that there is no comparison of ours presently. Actually, we are showing a movie in the form of a serial. We have not compromised on locations, budget and quality. I must tell you that few of my fans called me and said that 'Porus' is one up to 'Game of Thrones'.

Also read: INTERVIEW: Lucknow stone statues find an admirer in ‘Ishqbaaz’ Omkara

Put some light over your character?

I am essaying the role of Darius, the last Persian king who ruled over the world. He started a revolution against Alexander and even fought Porus.

What according to you is the best way of narrating a history to the audience?

In a film, we tell a story in three hours, in TV series, we have more time to elaborate. Since historical story needs elaboration, I think history is best told in series, not through a movie. People tried to tell the story of Mahabharata through movies, but couldn’t succeed. Ramayana and Mahabharata are successful in series (on TV); because these are complete stories of the world, it should be told in series and in detail.