Aakash Deep Saigal

"I am the opposite of Ansh - women don't excite me to the point of obsession!" Aakash Deep Saigal's best claim to recent fame is Ansh, the light eyed vicious character currently poisoning the Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi plot. But scratch those memory cells a bit and you may recall that this unconventionally good looking guy has also been the 1997 winner of the Gladrags Manhunt and was rated one of the seven sexiest men by Elle magazine. His roles in Pyar Mein Kabhi Kabhi and Suparimay not have been memorable, but his negative portrayal in Kyunki is definitely fetching him fans. Here, he talks about life, real and reel, to Prashant Golecha. How did you land the role of "Ansh" in Kyunki..? I had acted in two films Pyar Mein Kabhi Kabhi and Supari. Both films were nightmares. What appeared on screen was different from what was promised. I have not even been paid for Supari. The Kyunki... executive producer noticed me in Supariand called me. I went and met the people at Balaji Telefilms. I auditioned and they felt I was ideal to play "Ansh" as I had long hair and a beard! How much do you relate to the character of "Ansh" in real life? I am the opposite of "Ansh Gujral" in real life. Women don't excite me to the point of obsession! I am a cool type of guy- a very peace loving and positive person. The only way I identify with him is his determination in doing everything. How has the fan craze been? I can't walk on the roads. I get mobbed and that makes me feel I am a star. Even on my entry in the serial, seven lakh rupees were spent on the sets. Fans come and touch my hair and beard. This character has given me recognition which even films didn't give me. Is it true that you get letters from women written in blood? Yes! I don't know how to react. Some fans have told me they want to see me in films and that they would watch my film first day, first show! How is the experience of working with Smriti Iraani? She has slipped into her character in totality. She has become "Tulsi". Her experience level is high and I learn a lot from her. Only if your co-star is a good performer, can you give your best. Do you still want to work in films? I not only want to act, but would also love to direct a film. I am researching and working on a script for the last two years. I am doing television and saving money at the same time. If any big banner production offers me a substantial role, I will do it. Describe your ideal woman. A woman is a woman. I respect women. My woman should have lots of wisdom. That counts more than the beauty. Who inspires you the most? My father, who died a year ago. From him I have got the willpower, confidence and good values. What should we expect from your character "Ansh" in Kyunki....? "Ansh" is soon going to hurt "Nandini" really bad and the entire family will come to know about the status of our relationship. Watch out for more twists and turns. However, as the screenplay is written on a weekly basis, even I don't know what's going to happen next. What's the next goal in your life? I want to become a director, make a film, act in it and ultimately, win an Oscar!