In season 1 of Duranga on Zee5, Amit Sadh’s character Sammit Patel was in a coma all through the show. It is in the second season which is all set to release on October 24, that the actor got the chance to really explore the complexities of human nature. Sadh, who has done a number of OTT shows such as Breathe season 1 and 2 (2018), Avrodh: The Siege Within (2020) and Jeet Ki Zid (2021), talks about the show which is directed by Rohan Sippy and also stars Gulshan Devaiah and Drashti Dhami in the lead roles. Edited excerpts:
Duranga season one has a loyal fan following. What makes season 2 bigger, better and more exciting for the viewers?
I have been very excited for this series, especially for season 2 because of the portrayal of my character Sammit Patel which is all out in the open now. I get to do something special which I have never done before. My character is shrouded in mystery and intrigue. He’s a complex individual with hidden motives and someone you cannot put a finger on which makes it all the more interesting. The script had a unique gripping storyline which got my attention. It goes into the dark aspects of human nature and its complexities which intrigue me as an actor.
What was the prep required for a character such as this?
The prep was the fun part and made me jump into the physicality and the emotional depth of the character. A crucial aspect was harnessing the C-shape of the spine. I made it fundamental in conveying his emotions. Complex characters have complex motivations. By understanding their inner world, you get to create a physical presence that aligns with their emotional state, portraying the vulnerability and deceit. That body language allowed me to communicate non-verbally which added layers of authenticity to this mysterious character, which will hopefully resonate with the audience.
What has director Rohan Sippy's contribution been in terms of your role and the character arc of Sammit and the plotline?
First, the credit goes to the creative team of Zee5 and Goldie Behl and the writer Charu. When I signed one, there was no season 2 on the horizon and Goldie promised to give me a script and a character I would be really happy with as an actor. When I received the script for the second season, I saw that it had all the potential to be as successful and more than one. I was also relieved to know that Rohan is directing it. He gave me a lot of freedom to approach the character in my style, while also being there to clarify any doubts I might have had for the character.
In an interview earlier this year, you had mentioned how you went through a dark phase and even entertained suicidal thoughts. What is your state of mind now?
Now I am in love with this gift called life. I realised there is a lot to live for. I am blessed; I get to do what I love and I receive so much love for it. Life has changed a lot for me.
You have completed two decades in the acting profession. Do you believe there is a lot left to explore?
It’s just been 20 years; I have another 50 left! If the audience thinks I have done nothing, then I have done nothing and if they think I have done a lot, then I have done a lot. I am content with my life and I feel if I have not done something today, I will try and do it tomorrow.
What's in the pipeline?
I have two movies which are ready. One is called Pune Highway which also has Jim Sarbh and directed by Rahul DaCunha. There is another film called Main about an encounter specialist with Esha Deol. Both should hopefully be released by the first quarter of next year. Then there are a couple of films I am in talks for.
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