Hiten Paintal, who was last seen in Kasautii Zindagii Kay 14 years ago, is back on television with Muskuraane Ki Vajah Tum Ho. He’ll play the male lead’s brother-in-law, a politician who dreams of making it big in politics. What kept him away from the television? “I had a few offers for films on a few of times in the past when I was engaged with daily soaps,” he says. I clearly couldn’t accept them because I didn’t have any available dates. There was a time when people believed I didn’t want to participate in TV programmes.
I was concentrating on cinema and OTT, but because to the epidemic, the projects I was in discussions with had to be put on hold. I was also preoccupied with my home production and direction. But for the time being, I’d like to return to the little screen. I’m delighted everything has come together and I’m back in action with a grey-shaded persona.”
Because of the extended layoff, he may have to settle with older characters that aren’t really his age. Is he up to the task? “I’m not afraid of being typecast.” Performers in their 50s have played college students, while younger actors have essayed 50-year-olds. I consider myself fortunate in that I don’t appear to be my age. It now has drawbacks as well. I’ve been passed over for roles because I appeared to be younger. He responds, “I absolutely think that life begins at any age.”
Hiten is entirely focused on his profession, experimenting with many facets of the trade, including acting, production, and direction. We wonder if it leaves him any time for a girlfriend. “I am single and loving this moment,” he says. In fact, my married friends advise me to remain single (laughs!). On a more serious note, I have yet to meet the appropriate individual. It’s not that I’m opposed to marriage, but I have some unexplainable reservations.”
“The individual should not be emotional about things,” he adds of his ideal mate. I don’t want any real-life drama since we do so much of it in front of the camera. I’d like to be with someone who is upbeat and laid-back. “Khush raho aur rakho,” he says.
