With Kullfi Kumarr Bajewala completing 100 episodes, Mohit Malik says show changed audience perception about him after earlier villain stint
Mohit Malik
Despite its unusual format, Kullfi Kumarr Bajewala struck a chord with the audience. What do you think worked in its favour?
Making a musical on TV was a risk because it has never worked before. Each episode has two songs, and people are loving it. It is inspired by a Bengali show [Potol Kumar Gaanwala]. There is nothing stereotypical about the series — it explores a father-daughter relationship, which has rarely been seen on Indian television. Also, viewers have loved Aakriti [Sharma]. She is one of the best child actors I have seen in long.
After your negative act in Doli Armaano Ki, was it difficult to slip into a chocolate boy role?
My last show made me aggressive. I had to get it out of my system. I was working towards controlling my aggression and becoming more spiritual. It was during this transition that I got this role. My wife Addite was skeptical of whether I would pull it off. I needed to make this shift because people had started believing that I am abusive in real life too. When fans saw me with Addite, they would ask her if she was safe and check for bruises.
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Did it take a toll on your personal life too?
I felt drained, psychologically and physically, because I would be shouting on camera all day. Since the audience enjoyed the grey character, the writers kept scripting violent scenes. I couldn't switch off after work. So, I would come home angry after the shoot and scream at everyone around. I could no longer distinguish between my on-screen and off-screen avatar. My wife had to put up with a lot, and was the happiest when the show got over.
Coming back to Kullfi Kumarr Bajewala, we've heard that you intend to sing on the show.
Right now, I'm training. It's still at a nascent stage. Once I get better, I would like to sing for the show. Music is meditation for me.
Did you have any apprehension about playing a father?
Some actors fear that playing a father can be detrimental to their careers, but I don't agree. During the narration itself, I knew I wanted to be part of the show. After my look test, I messaged Nilanjana [Purkasthya, co-producer] expressing my desire to do the role, and I got it. This was the first time I was acting with kids. I felt an instant connection with Aakriti. She is a born actor, but I teach her whatever I can about the craft.
What is the one thing you take back from child actors?
They are raw, pure, and their acting comes from an emotional place. It's difficult to maintain the innocence [when you grow up].
Having played a father on screen, are you ready to take up the role in real life?
I love kids and have always wanted a little girl. But right now, we are not planning a family.
Also Read: Mohit Malik turns singer for his show Kullfi Kumarr Bajewala
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