I always wanted to be a well-known name in the industry: Casting Director Chandan Deo

Life OK’s Devon Ke Dev… Mahadev, produced by Triangle Films Company, is the talk of the town these days. Right from the dialogues, the cinematography, the costumes and the direction, the show, has in totality, endeared itself with the masses. But when we are talking of the show, how can we forget the man behind the entire cast? Yes, we are talking about the casting director of the show, Chandan Deo. Tellychakkar.com corners Deo on the sidelines of the shoot of the latest mythological that has caught the eye of the people. Now that you are a casting director, we want to know whether you always wanted to opt for this profession… Frankly speaking no, I never wanted to be a casting director, but I always aimed to be a part of this industry and be a well-known person. I entered in the casting director space to establish more contacts in the industry. My ultimate aim is to make a few short films and I hope I make my move accordingly. Tell us how did you step into this industry? By God’s grace, it was through a Balaji project. A few years ago, when they were recruiting for their cult show Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, I was lucky to get in as a production executive. Tell us something about your first break as a casting director? My first project as a casting director was again for a Balaji show Kahaani Mahabharat Ki that was followed by Kis Des Mein Hai Mera Dil, Mata Ki Chowki, Maan Rahe Tera Peetha, Phulwa, Navya and now Mahadev…. What compelled you to switch from production to casting? When I was with Balaji, there were some issues which made me shift to Swastik Pictures, but after a certain period, I faced some personal problems which compelled me to leave production and shift to the casting department. What are the difficulties one faces in the process of casting? When a particular casting assignment comes to us, we make sure that we knock on each door from where we can get a suitable person for the role. We get in touch with the best co-coordinators with the help of whom we try to pick a genuine person for the character. Alternatively, we also knock at acting institutes and call the selected for the auditions. Later on, we shortlist and give the options to the channel. After this it is entirely, the producer and the channel’s call. When you select an actor, what quality do you see in the person for the role? First of all, we take into account the acting of the person which is the ‘must’ quality one should possess. But, if ever the acting is not up to the mark, we adjust with the actor concerned if we feel that this particular actor can be a good one if given another chance. According to me, auditions for acting is the best acting institute these days. People learn acting through auditions. Of course, the face (looks) is the most vital component these days. Is your casting limited to those who come to you for the auditions? No, there was a system in Balaji where we used to hold auditions in colleges, go and sit in a coffee shop and observe. You never know that face we are looking for could be in the shop. Hence, our casting is not limited to the auditioning room, but we also pick talent and faces from all around. Your take on Mohit Raina, the Mahadev of your show… Well, he is a very genuine and hardworking actor. Apart from being completely fit for the character he plays, the man himself has the fire to work hard towards making the character more appealing. I am sure that he will reach the heights of success soon.