TVF’s show 'Kota Factory Season 3' is currently streaming on Netflix. The show, featuring Jitendra Kumar, Mayur More, Ranjan Raj, Rajesh Kumar, and Tillotama Shome among others, is receiving rave reviews from both audiences and critics. Rajesh Kumar, who portrays the math teacher Gagan Rastogi, recently disclosed the unique reason behind his decision to join the show.
In an interview with ABP’s Ent Live, Rajesh Kumar discussed his career, his first break, his experience with 'Sarabhai vs Sarabhai', his entry into the world of web series, and his passion for farming. He shared the story of how he began his journey in farming.
Rajesh Kumar on farming
“I am the only person who has not purchased any land for farming. I haven’t invested a single penny in land; if I buy land, I would be able to work only on that piece of land. But true freedom means you can work anywhere. In 2017, while hosting the Isha Foundation’s Rally for Rivers, I had a profound realization. It was there that I became acutely aware of the deteriorating condition of our soil. That’s when my farming journey began,” Rajesh explained.
Why he accepted Kota Factory
He then revealed how his commitment to farming played a pivotal role in his decision to accept the offer for Kota Factory. “During this period, I was deeply immersed in farming when the opportunity for Kota Factory came my way. I felt overwhelmed and unsure if I could juggle both. I couldn’t abandon farming for acting. Today, TVF will understand why I accepted the offer for Kota Factory. I remember being at Patna airport when I got a call asking what time I’d reach Mumbai for an audition. I agreed and asked them to send me the script. I memorized the script on the flight back home. Upon arriving, I asked my wife to help me rehearse, recorded the audition, and sent it over. I mentioned to the person that I was reluctant because I didn’t want my farming to be disturbed. He assured me it was only a two or three-day shoot and wouldn’t disrupt my farming,” he recounted.
Watch the interview here:
Rajesh continued, “When I asked where the shoot would be, he said Bhopal. I then inquired about the distance to Vidisha, which he said was about an hour and a quarter away. Hearing this, I agreed to do it, explaining that I needed to meet a farmer in Vidisha. I figured I could meet the farmer during a break from the shoot and wouldn’t have to spend money to meet the farmer. That was my primary motivation for doing Kota Factory.”
About Rajesh Kumar
Rajesh Kumar, a well-known face in Indian television, made his debut in 1984's 'Saaransh'. His portrayal of characters in popular sitcoms like 'Baa Bahu Aur Baby' and the iconic 'Sarabhai Vs Sarabhai' propelled him to national recognition.
Apart from 'Kota Factory', the actor is also seen in TVF’s other show 'Yeh Meri Family'. He will next be seen in 'Rautu Ka Raaz' along with Nawazuddin Siddiqui.