Shaan R Grover, who plays Mahesh Iyer in the recently released film Saiyaara, has been garnering attention for his portrayal of a character with questionable morals. In exclusive interviews, Grover has opened up about the challenges of playing a "red flag" character and the impact it had on him.
Grover acknowledged the difficulty of portraying Mahesh, stating that it wasn't easy to step into the shoes of someone so different from his own values. He questioned whether people like Mahesh actually exist, highlighting the character's negative traits. Despite the challenges, Grover prepared for the role by attending chemistry workshops with Aneet Padda, who plays Vaani, Mahesh's ex-fiancée in the film. These workshops were designed to help them build a believable connection and portray a couple with a five-year history.
The actor admitted that he felt disturbed by the negativity surrounding his character. He mentioned receiving hate messages from male viewers, though interestingly, not so much from female viewers, despite Mahesh's actions directly affecting Vaani in the film. This response indicates the impact of his performance and the audience's strong reaction to Mahesh's behavior.
Grover's initial approach to the audition was to portray Mahesh as slightly manic and psychotic, befitting a negative character. However, he was surprised when casting director Shanoo Sharma praised his romantic portrayal, seeing the potential for a deeper connection that would resonate with audiences. This nuanced approach seems to have paid off, as viewers find themselves intrigued by Mahesh's persistent gaze and lingering affection for Vaani, even after their relationship ends.
Despite any discomfort, Grover recognizes the importance of creating impactful characters. He focuses on the positive reception to his work, emphasizing that his goal is to affect people through his performances. He believes delving too deeply into negativity can be detrimental and that it's crucial to maintain a broader perspective on life and its purpose.
Grover also addressed the topic of nepotism, particularly concerning his Saiyaara co-star Ahaan Panday. Having known Panday since 2016, Grover defended his talent, stating that if nepotism brings talented actors like Panday and Ranbir Kapoor to the forefront, there's little to complain about. He pointed out that Saiyaara showcases diverse talents and journeys, with Ahaan starting his career, Aneet delivering a fresh performance, and Grover himself making his Hindi film debut after previous OTT projects.
Looking ahead, Grover expresses a mix of emotions about his career path. He admits feeling confused about the right steps to take, acknowledging the challenges faced by actors at all levels. Despite the uncertainty, he remains deeply passionate about acting and committed to pursuing his goals, driven by a love for the craft and a desire to bring happiness to others. He is open to various opportunities, including OTT projects and substantial roles in films, while harboring aspirations of one day leading films.
