I owe a lot to Naagin: Arjun Bijlani

Handsome, smashing and drool-worthy actor Arjun Bijlani’s acting talent and indelible innocence has helped him sail through the harshest of blows to emerge unscathed to take fans and producers by storm. 

With his acclaimed enactments in shows Miley Jab Hum Tum, Meri Aashiqui Tum Se Hi, Naagin, Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 9 and Kavach...Kaali Shaktiyon Se, Arjun has proved that he is the perfect example of talent and charm. 

Arjun is all set to win audiences’ heart once again with his new venture Pardes Mein Hai Mera Dil on Star Plus as Raghav.

We met Arjun at the press meet of his new show. The actor, though jaded after the tiresome schedule in Austria, was upbeat to talk about his new show and role...  

Excerpts from the conversation...          

There is a buzz that your show Pardes Mein... is inspired by the Shah Rukh Khan and Mahima Chaudhary starrer film Pardes. Is it true?

(Thinking) Pardes was a three hours movie; so people look at it in a different way but this is a daily soap. There will be a lot of things that will amuse the audience when the show will progress. My character Raghav will also depict some amazing shades as it is a multi-layered character. 

You did Meri Aashiqui Tumse Hi, Naagin, Kavach and now Pardes Mein... with Balaji Telefilms. So are you the new favourite of Ekta Kapoor?

(With a subtle smile) I think I am Ekta’s old favourite. 

Naagin fans terribly miss you in the show, do you also miss being a part of the project?

Yes, of course. Naagin has given me a lot. But now, I am doing a different show so I really can’t comment on what’s going on in Naagin 2. I am very busy with my show’s shooting. There are people who have told me that I am being missed in Naagin 2. I like it as I feel that I have managed to make a special place in viewers’ hearts. I am taking it in a positive way. 

You became audience’s favourite post Naagin. So do you think the show has given a lot to you?

Yes, Naagin was a super hit show. I owe a lot to it. I hope audience loves and appreciates my new character and show the same way.

Drashti Dhami or Mouni Roy - Who is your favourite co-star?

(Pondering) I know Drashti (Dhami) for eight years now and I am good friends with Mouni (Roy) . It is easier to shoot with friends as there is a comfort level with no hesitation. And romance can’t happen when there is awkwardness between two leads. 

Drashti had a spooky experience in Austria, did you also have any such experience?

(Rolling his eyes) I also had a spooky experience. Someone knocked my door and I told my make-up man to open it. When he opened the door, there was no one. We got damn scared. 

Are you fine playing mature roles on TV?

No, I am not fine as I prefer playing roles that are of my age. 

Since you were part of Jhalak, tell us something about the current season?

(In scorching heat, sipping juice) My Jhalak journey was amazing and I have learnt many things. I have given some good performances. I am happy with my journey on the show. When I went to Jhalak set yesterday for finale, I thought that Salman Yusuff Khan will win the show as he is very good. My good wishes are with him. 

Lastly, thank you for all the love. I hope audience loves my new show and character.