New Delhi: Sunny Hinduja is one of those actors who has marked his place in the industry with his critically acclaimed works. He began his career as an actor with the 2010 film 'Shaapit.' He became well-known among viewers in 2021 after portraying the pivotal role of Sandeep Bhaiya in the TVF online serial 'Aspirants'. Additionally, he contributed to TV shows, films and web-series like Jamun (2021), Chacha Vidhayak Hain Humare Season 2, and The Family Man (2019).


In an exclusive interview with ABP Live, the actor talked about getting his first break, gaining popularity as 'Sandeep Bhaia', his upcoming roles and much more. Here are a few excerpts from the interview:


How did acting happen for you? How did you get your first break?


I got my first break while I was still studying at FTII (Film and Television Institute of India). Tom Alter sir used to teach us and he was directing a film at that time. He thought that I would fit in as one of the characters and so I was called to audition for that part. I was really reluctant initially as I thought that I am still learning, what would I do? But then eventually I auditioned because I didn't want to miss out on the opportunity as well. The film was on football and being a footballer, my audition went well and I was finalised. I was reluctant but after being pushed constantly by the directors and my teachers, I finally did the role and that's how I got my first break.


From a time when you were skeptical about making your first break to a time when everyone recognises you and praises you, how does it feel now? How much time did it take you to reach where you are today?


Basically, it's a process of graduating. Whatever time went in between was spent in educating oneself...seeking the education of life. You have to be consistent and you have to keep pushing yourself to do your best. Education will continue, the process of learning will continue to get better, learn better and deliver better.


When you were offered the role of Sandeep Bhaiya, did you have any idea that that role will become so popular that it will have its own spinoff series?


Nobody had an idea. I myself thought k yaar kch bada role mil jae (if I could get a bigger role). That was a time when I was doing different roles. But this was a relatable role because everyone wants to feature in a series where the storyline lies on your shoulders, not just because you are the main character but because of the fact that you get to experience so many emotions in a series. You live the character to its fullest. God has been very kind and I am very grateful that a series has come out completely based on the character. This is like a dream come true.


 






What were your thoughts on the show's success when Sandeep Bhaiya released? Did you know that it would become so successful?


Honestly I had no idea. I was actually very nervous and skeptical because here the entire show was based on my character and the onus lay on my shoulders but I was willing to dive deep and explore the depth of the character to the maximum, so that I could portray it in the best possible way. It was not just me but the entire team was at it. We just gave our best leaving the final result in the hands of the audience.


Sandeep's character has a stability and melancholy in it. Even after getting success, he doesn't seem happy or excited. How did you process the character? Did you take inspiration from any point in your real life?


Inspiration has been from life itself. Every person has some ambition in life which they want to achieve. Just like I wanted to be an actor since childhood, Sandeep Bhaia wants to become an IAS officer. The basic mantra of life is to keep struggling and keep striving and one day, you will get somewhere at least even if not where you have wanted to be. Life doesn't stop and we should give more importance to the things that are happening for us rather than the things that are not happening. A labour commissioner can also become an IAS officer, so it's all about looking at the positive side of life and embracing it with a positive mindset.


Any interesting fan comment that you received after the show's popularity and you would like to share.


The audience is so adorable and innocent that many of the times, people share their queries in the comments section that I have not been able to clear this exam, please help. Those people who had lost hope, took inspiration from the character and stood up again, that is the biggest achievement in itself. So I guess it has not only been a personal achievement but the achievement of the entire team who worked day in and day out to create a character and a story that people can relate to and take inspiration from.




Does it feel great when people start recognising you by your character more than your real name?


Of course, it feels great. There is no better appreciation for an artist than to be recognised through his art. If my character is able to inspire people in any way, it is my biggest achievement. There can be no better victory for us as a team.