It's no easy task to earn your stripes. Actor Arjun Rampal will vouch for it. But it looks like the low phase is finally over for him, who is now finding roles in both big budget and art house films.
It's no easy task to earn your stripes. Actor Arjun Rampal will vouch for it. But it looks like the low phase is finally over for him, who is now finding roles in both big budget and art house films. Looking forward to Ra One in 2011, the handsome hunk speaks to CS about a great 2010 and his support system: 
A rocking 2010
It has been a wonderful year for me with films like Housefull, Rajneeti and We Are Family. Every role has been a challenge, but I guess Raajneeti was the toughest. I had to really work on the character's graph, body language and dialect. Looking back, I feel glad that I have made some good choices.
The fact that directors chose me in films that dealt with different subjects was in itself very encouraging. It seems like my efforts have finally paid off (smiles). Filmmaking is all about teamwork and I am glad to have worked with some great producers, directors and crews.
Life after OSO
Post Om Shanti Om, I realised that the audience really appreciates something hatke. I will be grateful to Farah Khan and SRK who convinced me to play the character of Mukesh Mehra. I don't believe in the concept of a solo hero film or multi-starrers. We're given parts and we have to do it well.
Even in We Are Family, though the spotlight was on Kajol and Kareena (Kapoor), the male protagonist's character was also an interesting one. He was involved throughout the film. I hope I get such projects in 2011 too (laughs).
A long wait
Well, my family and close friends have always supported me. When I was going through a rough patch, it was they who gave me a sense of self-belief. Their complete faith in me gave me enough strength to never end the search for good roles.
I've learnt that it's important to be honest towards yourself and have a healthy sense of conviction. Acting keeps me calm. Of course, a film is a business, so there's bound to be some criticism when things go wrong. The bouquets and brickbats are part of this industry, but these are the same people who shower us with so much love and affection when we do well.
Spiritual touch
I have always been spirituality inclined. Even when I was young, I'd often go to the temple. And when I was 17, I spent some time with the monks in Dharamshala. Spirituality isn't about being ritualistic or believing in the supernatural.
It is about staying connected with your inner self. My tryst with Buddhism taught me that. I feel that spirituality can help you energise your mind and soul when things aren't going right.
It's also about honesty. Spirituality helps you get rid of negativity, which is a huge blessing. Mehr brings that positivity in my life. My life would be incomplete without her; she's very loving and a big pillar of support.
Riding on RA One
I am very thrilled about this film, and really hope it turns out to be a memorable film for all. I have worked my butt off for it as it required me to be at my fittest best. I never thought I could manage it though, but this is the best part of this profession. You always get to surprise yourself.
Who: Arjun Rampal
What: Talking about finding a place in the industry after years of struggle
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