Puneet Soni, the latest newcomer on small screen, debuts with NDTV Imagine's Basera as Mehul Sanghvi, son of Keshubhai played by Ram Kapoor.

Puneet talks about how he always wanted to be an actor but, wanted to fulfill his families expectations before he could start the vigorous rut of auditions and screen tests. He says, "I always wanted to be an actor. But then I also knew I have to be responsible towards my family. The glitch was my family is into garment business. So obviously, I had to find a way to fulfill both the interests."

And find a way he did. Puneet goes on, "I knew I had to do my graduation. So I took up BA, but in correspondence, so that side by side I can work in theatre. After completing my graduation I went to Kenya on a two year contract basis with Levis as a Senior Merchandiser. I had to learn about garment business too you see, as someday I will be required to put it into use in my family business (smiles)."

This two year stint gave Puneet's family the confidence to give him a go ahead to join the entertainment industry. Puneet says, "I returned from Kenya and expressed to my family, my wish to get back to my first love- acting. And since they were sure that I'm serious about it, they supported my decision to shift base to Mumbai from Delhi."

So, Puneet came to Mumbai to stay with his sister Pooja who is married to actor Gagan Malik.

In spite of this 'connection' with the television industry, Puneet had a humble head start through the serial Kahaniyan Vikram aur Betal Ki. Puneet is glad to finally bag a commendable role. He signs off saying, "I'm enjoying each and every moment of being part of Basera. Especially since I'm playing Ram Kapoor Sir's son. My mother calls me and gives me feedback about my performance. It's a wonderful feeling!"

Reporter and Author: Susan Jose