I am back to being a struggler: Anas Rashid

Anas Rashid is not a quintessential television hero. Contrary to many, he maintains a subtlety in his attitude, which lends an aura of gravitas to his persona, making him an epitome of machismo. His magnetic nature draws admirers and fans from all across the globe.

Professionally, he is an outsider. With no Godfather in the industry, via his sheer hardwork, grit and dexterity, he has emerged as one of the most bankable actors in recent times. Post Prithviraj Chauhan, he hit gold playing Sooraj in Diya Aur Baati Hum. His act was loved by fans, lauded by critics and he lapped one award after another.

After curtains fell on Diya Aur Baati, he is busy juggling offers to select a befitting comeback on TV, which we accede will be with a bang and pretty soon.

Personally, however, the reclusive Anas has had his share of controversies. From the infamous slapgate incident, wherein allegedly he was slapped by co star Deepika Singh on Diya Baati set, to his recent separation with lady love Rati Pandey, Anas has been the poster boy of front page news.

He is an enigma and in an attempt to go beyond his mysterious shield and get to know him better, Tellychakkar recently entered into a candid conversation with Anas and discussed about life, work and more. Excerpts:

Has your relationship with your co-star Deepika Singh improved post the show?

Yes, of course! It was seen on-screen as well. It’s quite obvious that when you get to work for more than five years continuously then you bond well with your co-star. I don't need to say this; everybody saw it in the last episode too.

Now that you are above 35, do you fear that you will not get good roles? 

I don't feel that I won't get good roles. Inshallah! I will keep getting good roles throughout my life whether I will be 65 or 70 years old.

Do you feel that Diya Aur Baati Hum 2 will manage to get as much acclaim as season 1?

I wish so but nothing can be said at the moment because time has changed.

There have been a lot of reports in the media about your tantrums on sets. Is your reclusive life mistaken as being rude? Are you really a loner?

I am not a loner. The whole world is walking along with me. Those who claim that I throw tantrums, they should come to my home and see how pampered child I am in my family! So that's not tantrums; it’s all about getting pampered. We keep pampering each other.

Why aren't you easily available for the media?

No, it’s nothing like that. I am always available for the media. Sometimes we are friendly with the media and we tell them, 'No, we can't give a byte' but all the important segments of my life have been shot by the media. There is no page unturned of Anas Rashid's life that the media has not captured.

What are your marriage plans?

Let's see when my Ammi selects a girl for my marriage!

What is your choice about your life partner?

My choice would be a simple girl, who can understand my family and my family values and of course, who respects a man.

How are you keeping yourself engaged these days?

I am jobless these days. Though I am not looking for work but still I am jobless. I am gaining strength by exercising and spending time with my family. I am also meeting people; I am starting from the beginning; as a struggler.

Any roles in your wishlist? 

I would like to play more intense and romantic and action packed roles.

Any plans to make way to the silver screen?

It’s an actor's choice that he/she wants to see himself/herself on the silver screen. If I will get a good producer and director then I would love to associate with them.