Most people think I shy away from mainstream cinema: Rahul Khanna

11 November,2013 08:20 AM IST |   |  Shameem Khan

From being a style icon to making a surprise television debut, Rahul Khanna tells it as it is...


Selective about films
I don't think I am overly choosy. I am always on the lookout fornew, exciting projects and choose from what the offers. Most people think I shy away from mainstream cinema but that's nottrue. The fact is, I have worked with commercial filmmakers like Imtiaz Ali in Love Aaj Kal, Karan Johar & Ayan Mukherji in Wake Up Sid, Vikram Bhatt in Elaan and even Raj Kanwar in Raqeeb. For me, the joy of being an actor is working in as many different genres as possible. I enjoy being part of a complete commercial set-up as well as independent ones. In any case, those lines are becoming increasingly blurred these days.

A small screen debut
A television series wasn't something I was really looking to do. However, when Anil told me about the quality and scale that they were aiming for with 24, it sounded great. It seemed that they were setting out to chart a new territory and I was excited to be a part of it. It was great fun to work with a good and talented young team. As for Anil, he is disciplined and completely involved in his work. Also, being the producer of the show, he was incredibly hospitable and went out of his way to personally make sure that I was comfortable. He has a gorgeous, state-of-the-art trailer and an exceptional chef, the highlight of my shooting days were lunch time with him.

Style matters
I'm flattered that people like the way I dress. I enjoy clothes but style interests me more than fashion. Wit, manners, the way you treat others, the choices you make in your everyday life, even the pet peeves you have are all as important as your clothes. Your individuality, not advertising campaigns and trends should inform what you wear. That said, I think it would be great fun to start a men's clothing line. But then, I am guilty of being somewhat of a word nerd. That's the reason why, I would love to write a book or script some day.

Dream Directors
There are many wonderful filmmakers today. I'd love to work with Dibaker Banerjee, Vishal Bharadwaj and Anurag Kashyap toname just a few. I also think Farah Khan's films are such a blast. A dream project would be a really stylish heist film or a murder mystery, a Sherlock Holmes or Agatha Christie adaptation perhaps.

Future projects
Right now, I'm looking forward to the release of my next project, a cool, Indie film. It's set between today's Mumbai and the tea plantations of Ooty in the1980s. u00a0

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
Related Stories