SONY SAB TV: Interview with Faisal Khan, Garud - the King of Birds

Faisal Khan is back on the small screen with Sony SAB TV’s mythological epic genre show Dharm Yoddha Garud  on SAB TV. He will be seen playing Garud’ – the king of birds. In a candid conversation with us, Faisal Khan talks about the show and his dreams of becoming an actor…

How did you become an actor?
I am very passionate about dancing but it has always been my dream to become an actor.
Since this is your first show in the mythological genre, did you do any kind of workshop?
I underwent a drastic physical preparation so that I look the part of Garud. As far as mental preparation goes, I am taking it one day at a time. Because it is a mythological show, I did as much research as I could. But with the show’s storyline changing with every episode, it will require me to customize my mental preparation as per what the scenes demand.
Say something about your look in the show?
I play a bird and you will get to see me in a very different getup. My look is something new and very amazing and I am sure everyone will love it. In fact when I was cast, I was wondering how all of this would be executed. But now that we have started shooting, I can say that it is being shot in the most beautiful way possible.
How much time do you take to prepare for the shoot?
Usually 55 minutes and at least five people take care of my wings and heavy jewellery. I am working hard for my character. I have to work on my body language to get the attitude of my character. For instance, the way he talks and carries the costumes.
How is the character of Garud- the king of birds different from any characters you have essayed so far? What do you love the most about your character?
Garud is known as the God of Birds. And the personna that comes with his name already has a certain visual that people have of him. So, I had to work on my physique a lot. As you know, birds are supposed to be healthy and if they are not, they are unable to fly. I have a thing for historical and mythological shows. You get to learn so much from them, you get to enter a different era of time and play a timeless character. This is different from what you would do in daily soaps and in your daily life. And that is the USP of this show.
What is the concept and story of this show?
It is a completely new show in terms of concept and story. I do not think Indian television has seen such a show being made ever before. The show will also showcase the emotional connection that Garud shares with his mother.
Toral Rasputra is playing your mother in the show. How is your bonding with her?
My bonding with multi-talented actor Toral Rasputra is amazing. She is good to work with and treat me like a son.
You have received praise for your performances in many shows. How important is appreciation from within the industry for you?
It is important because finally you are working in the industry. You feel good when  viewers  praise your work.  When people send you appreciation after watching your good work it means they have gone through your roles.
How has the shoot been so far?
The shoot so far has been really good. I really enjoy working with the whole team.  Going the extra mile and acquiring new skills for the show is very exciting for me.
How would you want to impact the world?
I think I am too young to think about this now, but I would want to be someone who inspires other people to work hard and enjoy what they do.
Are you happy with the offers coming your way?
Extremely happy.  I feel like the luckiest in the industry.
What is next on your wish list?
Right now I am concentrating on Dharm Yoddha Garud. I hope viewers will like this technically super show.