'Look is kept modernized so that masses connect' - Neil Bhatt

After winning many dance competitions and participating in shows like Kaboom and Boogie-Woogie, Neil Bhatt is now all set to chase his dreams in the fantasy world as ‘Arslaan’ in Sony's new series.

We caught up with him and quizzed him about his new series and the character he is playing in the show.

How does it feel to play a lead role in the debut venture?
I never let my mind conceive that I am a lead. The main crux of this character is that he does not have to portray as a lead character, which has let me keep my head on ground. I am trying to behave as normal as I am actually in my real life.

You are playing an unconventional role like one in Arslaan, are you also open for saas bahu sagas?
I feel that as an actor I should be open to all kind of roles and I will definitely take up something I like and feel that I can do justice to the role.

Tell us something about your modernized costume.
We have tried to be with time and with the script. Script is 3000 years old and the look is a bit modernized so that the masses connect. The character that I play is Arslaan who is a shy guy and he designs and makes weapons; so such kind of look definitely works for a character like this. I am wearing an armor which is placed on the left side of my shoulder and it can be used for defending me, when there is any kind of attack on me. Then there is a red rope which I am wearing. It is very different and has a modern look.

What was your reaction when you saw this look?
When we were deciding on the characterization, I was wondering how they will portray it as this is a Persian guy. When I saw this wig I was amazed and never thought the character will look this way. I think it's all the hard work of the creative team. Thousands of minds have gone in giving this kind of look. Everything that is there is all for a purpose, and not for fantasy. This is a Chinese Japanese kind of look.

What kind of preparation did you undergo before portraying this character?
I had actually gone through a one and half months Marshall Arts training, after that 2 months script reading so that I establish a rapport with my colleagues in the show. We all used to be together from morning 7 to 10 in night and we had a whale of time. Also we have rehearsed in all the locations so that our chemistry is good.

We have also heard that a video game with all the characterization of Arslaan is planned, how do you feel?
I think its an amazing concept. I am loving it as I myself is a avid gamer and you won't believe I love to play mythological games too. People have seen Greek Gods in games, and now people will see me as a character in video game. With this people will get connected in a much better way.

How is Neil in real life?
In real life I am a very simple person and don't like complications. I am a hardworking person. I am not saying this just to praise myself, but many people have told me about this. I am a choreographer as well. That's it about me.

How much has Neil changed after Arslaan?
I have changed a lot and have become more responsible. I have learned a lot of things from the character. I have become more focused which is also one of the important characteristics of Arslaan. I am also trying hard to make a mark in this industry and giving my 100 percent.

Reporter and Author: Binita Ramchandani