Chandan K Anand, who has been garnering immense love and appreciation for his performance in 'Class', will soon be seen sharing screen space with Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone in Siddharth Anand's 'Fighter'. ETimes got in touch with the actor for an exclusive interview where he spoke about the upcoming aerial actioner, anticipating comparisons with Hollywood films, working with a stellar team and more. Excerpts...
You received a lot of love and appreciation for your performance in 'Class'. How was your working experience with your co-actors since most of them are young newcomers?
'Class' was a new lease of life for me as an actor. After 'Parched', an internationally acclaimed film directed by Leena Yadav, I was working with Ashim Ahluwalia who was yet another internationally acclaimed director. Working with such leaders and directors is an opportunity to learn and grow at a massive level as an actor and that happened for me. As actors, we are paid to play directors' vision and I enjoy doing that and same was for 'Class'. As far as the other cast is concerned, I love working with young talents as they bring new style, enthusiasm and freshness to the floors of any set and you learn a lot from them. In 'Class', the casting was fantastic and I had a great rapport with every actor. I am waiting for the second season of 'Class'.
You will soon be seen sharing the screen space with Hrithik Roshan, Deepika Padukone and Anil Kapoor in 'Fighter'. How was your experience shooting for the film?
'Fighter' is the biggest and most awaited film of the year 2024. I am loving every day of the shoot and I am really happy to be a part of the team. Sharing screen space with stalwarts like Hrithik, Anil and Deepika is a blessing and it is an indicator that shows I am on the right path.
This is the first time an aerial actioner is being made in Bollywood. There are going to be a lot of comparisons with the Hollywood films. What's going to set Fighter apart?
There won’t be any comparisons. Indian films work on emotions. If you create that thrilling and passionate world, you win the heart of your audience. So far, I haven’t seen anything like that. However, I know for a fact that we all are enjoying the process of making the biggest blockbuster of 2024. We are working day and night to make a beautiful heart warming film which will be loved by everyone.
How was it working with Siddharth Anand?
I have become a Siddharth Anand fan. I never ever thought in my life that I would be fascinated by anyone or call myself his fan. While working with Sid sir I was amazed to see how beautifully he takes charge on the set. He is leading everyone, right from superstars to each and every technician and there is no confusion in his vision. He is passionate for his work, smart, commanding yet humble. He is all for his filmmaking. At my very first meeting with Sid sir, I was overwhelmed to see his charm. I remember thinking, 'Yeh toh khud hi hero hai bhai.' The best part is that despite so much pressure on the film set, he connects and creates a personal rapport with each and every cast and crew member. He creates a family while working.
You have been a small but crucial part of films and series like 'Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl', 'The Body', 'Love Aaj Kal', 'Class' and many others. How much does screen time matter to you as an actor?
Well, screen time and bigger meaty roles are really important for any actor to showcase his talent. But in my case, I didn’t have the choice to choose and wait till the right opportunity comes. I came with Rs 2000 out of which I bought a train ticket to Mumbai for Rs 425 and landed into the city of dreams to be an actor. So whatever came in my way, I took it as an opportunity to hone my skills further and have food and shelter to sustain. I feel blessed that this city gave me plenty. I focused more on the working hours so that I keep polishing my reflexes as an actor. There is a huge difference when it comes to acting in theatres, serials, ads and films and I would say I have honed myself in all the mediums.
You have been a part of this industry for more than two decades now. How do you look back at your journey in the industry so far?
I have been busy working and creating characters in all the platforms in these two decades. It has been a learning experience and I have explored various emotions while portraying numerous characters and working under the best teams and directors. I find myself versatile as an actor. Although I am still on it, I feel like I have come a long way. Time just runs when you are focusing on work and you love what you do.
