‘I was lucky enough’

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Though he is just two films old, actor Kartik Tiwari seems to have a footing in Bollywood. Remembered for his four-minute long monologue in debut film Pyaar Ka Punchnama and as an outgoing lover in Akaash Vani, Kartik is ready to show his action prowess in his forthcoming film Kaanchi, which is also touted as a comeback film for veteran director Subhash Ghai. It’s a dream come true for Kartik who wanted to act for Yash Chopra and Ghai.
Talking about his eventful entry into Bollywood, Kartik says that Rajat’s (his screen name in Pyaar Ka Punchnama) monologue still gives him the jitters. “I still get goose bumps when I see that clip on video, You Tube or people talk about it. I just can’t believe that I did that scene and it became such a hit. I could not have got a better role than that,” says Kartik.
Speaking about Kaanchi, Kartik says he feels he is being launched yet again and it is a treat to work with Subhash Ghai. “It is Subhash sir’s comeback film after a sabbatical of five years, but looking at his energy and passion, it does not feel that he was away for so long. He is very passionate about filmmaking. He is a treat to watch at work,” says Tiwari, who is going to share space with newcomer Mishti and veteran actors Rishi Kapoor and Mithun in the film.
“It is not easy to work with veteran actors like Rishi and Mithun sir. I remember I was so nervous on the first day when we were canning a scene with Mithun sir. I couldn’t perform and he had to calm me down before we went ahead,” he says.
And on days he is not shooting, he is assisting Ghai on the set. “I work as assistant director on days when I am not in front of the camera. I guess my interest is veering towards direction,” shares the actor who admits it is tough to sustain in Bollywood without a mentor.
“It is not easy for anyone. Be it a newcomer who comes from a non-filmy background or a star kid. We all have to work hard, the only difference is star kids get more attention. They come with contacts and some amount of fame, but then they carry a baggage of expectations too,” says Kartik who feels proud that he made it on his own.
“I take pride in saying that I have come this far without any help. Probably I was lucky enough to find the right people and the right scripts,” he ends.