Interview: HARSH RAJPUT: “DESPITE HAVING WORKED FOR 22 YEARS, I STILL FEEL LIKE A NEWCOMER!”

Harsh Rajput is a familiar face in the Indian television industry, with an impressive career spanning over 22 years. He has showcased his acting prowess in several popular television shows, including Hitler Didi, Saath Nibhaana Saathiya, Crazy Stupid Ishq, Nazar, Pishachini and Teri Meri Doriyaann. Over the years, he has carved a niche for himself with his versatile performances across different genres. Having made his mark on television, Harsh is now exploring exciting opportunities in films and on OTT platforms. He will next be seen in the horror film Jhaad Phook, in which he plays Rajveer, a professor of psychology researching supernatural and paranormal phenomena. In this candid conversation with Keerti Kadam, Sr Editor of CineBuster, Harsh talks about his 22-year journey, his character, his love for the horror genre and his aspirations as an actor.

CineBuster: To begin with, could you tell us about yourself and your journey in the entertainment industry?

Harsh Rajput: I am Harsh Rajput, and I have been associated with the entertainment industry for the past 22 years. I began my career with television and gradually made my way forward, working in several shows. Audiences may have seen me in serials such as Teri Meri Doriyaann, Pishachini, Hitler Didi, Saath Nibhaana Saathiya and Crazy Stupid Ishq, among others. Having spent considerable time on television, I am now gradually exploring films and OTT platforms as well. However, my belief has always been that an actor’s primary responsibility is to entertain audiences. I have never restricted myself to a particular medium. Whether it is television, films or OTT, I am willing to take up anything that challenges me and appeals to my instincts as an actor.

CineBuster: Having spent over two decades in the industry, how would you describe your journey and your experience of entertaining audiences through so many projects?

Harsh Rajput: I would say that I have entertained audiences quite extensively over the years. I have been part of approximately 18-19 television shows, apart from music videos and advertisements. Through one medium or another, I have always tried to connect with people. Interestingly, despite having worked for 22 years, I still feel like a newcomer! Every morning, I wake up with the thought that it is a new day and that I have something different to accomplish. I believe there is still so much more to explore and achieve.

CineBuster: Was your transition towards films and OTT a conscious career decision, or did it happen organically as opportunities came your way?

Harsh Rajput: Honestly, there was no elaborate plan behind it. I have always followed my instincts while choosing projects. Whenever a concept appeals to me and I find something interesting in it, I consider taking it up. Jhaad Phook was one such project. I particularly liked its concept and the journey that the film promised to offer, which is why I decided to be a part of it.

CineBuster: With OTT platforms offering both films and web series, the boundaries between different mediums are gradually disappearing. Do you think actors today have more choices, or is there still a preference for a particular platform?

Harsh Rajput: I genuinely believe that the medium should never be a limitation for an actor. I don’t differentiate between television, films and web series. What matters to me is the character and the quality of the content. It is often believed that OTT caters to a relatively niche audience, whereas television and films reach a wider section of society. However, I don’t believe in making that distinction. Whether the audience belongs to the class or mass segment, my intention is to entertain everyone. If an interesting opportunity comes my way on OTT, I will happily take it up. Similarly, I would be equally enthusiastic about a good television show or film. Ultimately, good work matters more than the platform on which it is presented.

CineBuster: You have emphasised the importance of good work. What, according to you, defines a good performance or a satisfying project?

Harsh Rajput: For me, good work is something that continues to resonate with me even after I have finished shooting. If I go home after performing a scene and find myself laughing, smiling, feeling emotional or even reflecting on something that made me sad, I know that I have experienced something meaningful as an actor. If those emotions stay with me when I go to bed, I feel that I have accomplished something worthwhile that day. That personal satisfaction is my definition of good work.

CineBuster: OTT has opened doors for several actors who may not necessarily fit the conventional definition of a film star. Do you consider it a blessing for artistes and the entertainment industry?

Harsh Rajput: Absolutely! OTT has been a tremendous blessing, not just for actors but for the entire entertainment fraternity. It has generated employment for numerous people, including technicians, crew members and everyone working behind the camera. Many families depend on the opportunities created by this industry, and that is a wonderful thing.

Earlier, films often followed a particular formula when it came to portraying a hero. An actor was expected to have a certain appearance, good looks and a well-built physique to fit the conventional image of a leading man. With OTT, storytelling has become increasingly character-driven. Ordinary people and relatable personalities are now being presented as protagonists, allowing audiences to identify with them. An actor no longer needs to fit into a predetermined image to play a hero. This has given artistes the freedom to explore different characters, showcase their abilities and bring fresh dimensions to their performances. I think that is one of the biggest advantages of OTT.

CineBuster: Tell us about your character in Jhaad Phook. What is his role in the story, and what made you say yes to the film?

Harsh Rajput: I play a character named Rajveer, who is a professor of psychology. He is researching supernatural and paranormal phenomena as part of his academic thesis. The film revolves around this subject and follows Rajveer’s journey as he tries to win back his love. His academic knowledge and understanding of psychology play an important role in the way he approaches the situations he encounters. The supernatural elements add another interesting dimension to his journey. It was this combination of psychological exploration, supernatural elements and an engaging storyline that attracted me to the film.

CineBuster: The title Jhaad Phook is quite intriguing and instantly catches one’s attention. What do you think makes it interesting?

Harsh Rajput: I find the title very catchy. It has an unusual quality, is easy to remember and rolls off the tongue effortlessly. I think it creates curiosity about the subject of the film even before people know what the story is about.

CineBuster: Not everyone from the younger generation may be familiar with the term ‘Jhaad Phook’. How would you explain its meaning to them?

Harsh Rajput: If you ask our grandmothers or elders in the family, they will certainly be familiar with this term. It is a traditional belief that has existed in our society for generations. However, younger people, particularly those who may not believe in supernatural or paranormal activities, might not understand it immediately. Essentially, Jhaad Phook refers to certain occult practices or rituals performed on someone, often with the belief that they can remove an evil influence or cast a spell. It is also associated with concepts such as ‘Karni’. The film explores this fascinating subject and the beliefs surrounding it.

CineBuster: Horror is a genre that fascinates audiences, but it can also be quite frightening. Are you personally fond of horror films, and do you get scared while watching them? Can audiences expect some genuinely frightening moments in Jhaad Phook?

Harsh Rajput: Horror is actually one of my favourite genres, although I don’t get frightened easily. Having worked extensively in this space, I have become quite comfortable with it. One of my most popular television shows was Nazar, which aired on Star Plus. Monalisa ji played the daayan, while I portrayed her son. We shot several supernatural sequences during the show, and that experience gradually took away my fear of such situations. As far as Jhaad Phook is concerned, I would say that it is more than just a horror film intended to frighten audiences. It takes viewers on a journey that explores the distinction between superstition and faith. That is what makes the film particularly interesting.

CineBuster: What are your personal expectations from Jhaad Phook? What would you like audiences to take away from the film?

Harsh Rajput: I have always followed a simple philosophy when it comes to my work. Once a project is completed, I consider my responsibility towards it fulfilled. I give my best while working on it and then move on rather than constantly worrying about the outcome. Sometimes, expecting too much can lead to disappointment when things don’t unfold as anticipated. I have experienced situations where I felt a particular project would open certain doors for me, but things did not necessarily turn out that way. Over time, I have learnt to let go of such expectations. I believe in doing my work sincerely and leaving the results to the Almighty.

Having said that, I sincerely hope audiences enjoy Jhaad Phook, appreciate my performance and shower the film with lots of love. Of course, the success of a project also helps an actor move forward and explore new opportunities, and I would be delighted if this film opens up another exciting chapter in my career.

By Keerti Kadam