The makers and channels have realized some roles can't be done by newcomers for a lesser cost! Vishwajeet Pradhan

In the last few weeks, men are suddenly taking centre-stage, and that too not the muscle tussle types but powerful, versatile actors like Ashutosh Rana, Darshan Jariwala and Pramod Moutho (he was seen in a Sony show) have returned to the small screen. The latest addition to this list is actor Vishwajeet Pradhan who is part of Maryada Lekin Kab Tak. TellyChakkar talked to Pradhan who is in Kolkata for his first-ever Bengali film. Excerpts from the interview: How does it feel to be back again in television? It feels great, I must say. Few people know I started my career with the famous show, Fauji, in which I played Yaseen Khan. My character dies in the last episode. Now Fauji is better known as Shahrukh Khan’s first serial! But I must say I learned a lot while working for the serial. Sadly, one hardly gets to see such shows today. What made you return to the small screen? The role played the major part in my decision. It is very well written. SSP Brahmanand Jakhar, my character, is not perfect like any other human being and he also has some grey shades in his character. I loved this concept and especially Star Plus’ experiment with the new time slot of 11 to 12 pm. Shows like Kaali and Maryada have been successful here. What are your thoughts on the unique star cast of this show? I do agree it is a unique casting. We have actors like Indrani Haldar who is a well known artiste in West Bengal and has done many television shows and Bengali films, and also people like Rakesh Bapat who has done both films and television. Kamya Punjabi, known for her versatility also plays a key role in this. We also have fresh faces like Riddhi Dogra and Dakksh. For me, more than the casting, the team work matters. Unless the entire unit works as a team and performs, it is difficult for a show to succeed. Do the youngsters in the unit ask for tips? (Laughs) Who said that only junior actors have to ask for advice from seniors? I believe if you have the right talent and attitude even I can also ask for tips and suggestions! I am sure they also feel the same and will ask me when required. What do you think of the current trend of seasoned actors like you, Ashutosh Rana, Pramod Moutho starting a second innings on the small screen? It is definitely a very positive thing and I am sure viewers will like this. Thankfully the makers and broadcasters have understood that there are some roles which can be played only by senior actors. One cannot get it done by newcomers for lesser cost! So will your film career take a backseat now? Certainly not. I am currently shooting for a Bengali film titled as Mcom Chowmein. This also stars Sarwar Ahuja, Sayali Bhagat and Satish Kaushik. I play an MLA. This is the first Bengali film I am doing and am quite excited about this. There are a few Hindi film releases lined up as well like Anees Bazmee's No Problem in which I have played a South African gangster and also Raktcharitra-2. In films, dates of the leads are sought first and then we have to adjust. So as of now I will juggle with both television and films.