After keeping away from daily soaps for 11 years, Jay Bhanushali, who has featured in shows like Kasautii Zindagii Kay, Kayamath, Kis Desh Mein Hai Meraa Dil, and Kairi – Rishta Khatta Meetha, is returning to the fiction genre with Hum Rahein Na Rahein Hum (HRNRH). He will play Shivendra, a prince, and is paired with Tina Datta. He says, “I was offered many shows, but nothing excited me. Rarely do I feel so strongly about a show that I don’t want it to slip from my hands. This is the project I wanted to return with.”
Jay adds, “This is a pacy show with an interesting story. I will also get to explore my romantic side on screen, something that I have been wanting to do for a long time.”
Even though he is returning to the fiction world after a long gap, he doesn’t feel the pressure of the ratings. The focus is on giving his best to the character he has been assigned to portray. Jay says, “If you had asked me this six years ago, I would have told you that I do get affected. But that’s not the case anymore. Also, fortunately, ratings have been kind to me so far because all my shows have struck a chord with the audience. Having said that, I have detached myself from the pressure of ratings. The focus is on creating good content and enjoying myself on the set. Over the years, I have realised that you make mistakes and bad decisions if you panic about numbers. I come from a place of security and not fear.”
What about the ongoing trend of shows shutting down prematurely within three months? “Entertainment comes with a price. Everyone knows that the industry is unpredictable, but you can’t stop working because of that fear,” he replies.
Along with acting in HRNRH, Jay will also host India’s Best Dancer 3 (IBD). While talking about shooting for both shows simultaneously, he says, “I shoot for HRNRH in Umargaon and IBD in Mumbai. I will not get time to spend with my family, especially my daughter Tara, for almost two months. Though it is difficult to stay away from her, I am mentally prepared for it.”
