He started his career with a teen-based show, “Just Mohabbat”, and later received his big break in Bollywood with the movie Tarzan The Wonder Car. Vatsal Sheth is now entertaining television viewers as a rich spoilt brat, Shaurya Goenka, in the Star Plus show Ek Hasina Thi .
Though the character is negative, Vatsal agreed to come on board because “the show is different from the run-of-the-mill serials which focus on the bitterness and angry exchanges between mother-in-laws and daughter-in-laws.” Excerpts from an interview:
What motivated you to play a negative role when all your other work showcase you in positive roles?
I was initially hesitant to play a negative role, as I do not fit the conventional description of a villain. I had never thought that I would be able to pull off a negative character. I don’t resemble the conventional ‘muscle-y’ villain.
This character was certainly a big risk given your unconventional looks. What did you see in the character that you went ahead with it?
I chose the role because it offered something different from the usual saas-bahu soap operas. My role is a complete anti-hero, yet, he is a lovable villain what with his soft and innocent look.
Do you feel the audience has accepted you in this new avatar?
It was a challenge to do a negative role as it came to me after doing a range of positive ones. The audience has given me an overwhelming response for this role. Interestingly, the show is now going to air on Zee Telugu. The fact that another channel is airing the show in a different language is a proof of its definite success. The fact that audience not only accepted but also loved my character makes me feel that I have grown as an actor.
Who would you call your inspiration?
My role models are Ajay Devgn and Salman Khan.
I did my first movie with Devgn and he has always been an inspiration to me.
I deeply respect Salman Khan for his initiative, Being Human.
I try my best to support Bhai’s campaign, as I know what excellent work it is doing for childcare and healthcare.
I even wear Being Human T-Shirts on the set and for my character as often as possible.
