My experiments with films

Rajeev Khandelwal is a brave man. Right from his debut movie, Aamir (2008), directed by newcomer Rajkumar Gupta, to the recently released, Soundtrack, once again directed by a debutant, Neeraj Gosh, Khandelwal has been on an experimental curve in Bollywood. Not only did he opt to act with fresh directors but he’s also gone ahead and played the unconventional hero. So as expected, Soundtrack didn’t have your typical Bollywood protagonist, but a music director who turns deaf. That apart, Khandelwal is  keeping himself busy on the small screen with the second season of Sach ka Samna.What research went into playing the deaf character in Soundtrack?I did not play a born deaf person but someone who loses it one fine day and the trauma he goes through. I didn’t have to work as hard as Soha who plays a born deaf character. But I did attend workshops with Neerav and Soha (Ali Khan). At the end of the day, I just blindly followed Neerav’s vision that I hope has helped. Regarding your choice of films, is there a conscious attempt to break stereotypes?There is no blue print, no game plan just a matter of pure instinct and a bit of luck. I do read a lot of scripts and I need to be convinced about the director and his intent. I don’t believe in taking the conventional route in Bollywood anyway. Don’t you think it is important to be part of big banners and join bigger directors in Bollywood?Not really. I am absolutely satisfied with my choice. As for big banners, I think I have been part of big films as the films I did still have a shelf value, they still get talked about. Isn’t that what counts?Your concept of ideal cinema?Cinema obviously has to be entertaining yet it shouldn’t narrow down to just dancing around trees or fighting 15 goons at a time. I am all for newer ideas, new directors and a fresh approach. Cinema is a creative medium, not a business enterprise. Is the second season of Sach Ka Samna different from the first one? I have started shooting for it and would rather talk once it starts airing on TV. What else excites you? Travelling. I love camping, driving and exploring new places in India. I am not really a movie buff.