EXCLUSIVE: ‘It is difficult to portray a grey character’ – Payal Rohatgi on her TV debut role

Actor Payal Rohatgi is all set to make her television debut with Sony's new show ‘Humsafars’. She plays the role of Harshad Chopra aka Sahir's sister-in-law in the serial. The actor has earlier been a part of reality shows like ‘Bigg Boss’ and ‘Survivor’ and has also acted in many Bollywood films. In an exclusive interaction with Pinkvilla.com, Payal reveals in detail about her role and her debut on television. Read on:

Tell us about your role in ‘Humsafars’.

To begin with, I play a very glamorous role of a Muslim married woman, Anam, a big shot in a fashion house. Anam is much focussed, ambitious lady who looks forward in life and wants to reach the top. My character has grey shades though. It is an unconventional and not a regular vamp.

How have you prepared yourself for the role?

It is very easy to play a sweet girl-next-door but difficult to portray a grey character. In normal life, we are all sweet and not vamp. So, to play a villain a lot of focus is required. I have been doing films; I wanted to do TV because I wanted to learn. I am a learner and always learning. I want to push myself to the farthest limits. I am always experimenting with roles.

Why did you choose Humsafars as your TV debut?

The character of Anam is very glamourous, so that attracted me. Plus the role is not of regular vamps who only think of harming others. It is a well-sketched role who is a go-getter in life. It is all about how you choose your career. Looking good was also a priority so that’s why I chose to play Anam.

How did you bag the role?

I had auditioned and after a period of two months, my role was finalised.

What did Sangram say about your debut?

He was to one who told me that I should consider doing television. And as an actor even I wanted to explore opportunities and areas.

Having been worked in both films and TV how is the work difference?

Oh! People shoot here continuously for so many hours! It’s been only a few days on sets and seeing my co-actors, even I am getting the energy to work for long hours. If they can do it, even I can do it. And all my co-actors are lovely and we are already working as a family. It is great to work with them. I will give my 100 per cent to television right now.