Kushal Tandon: I appreciate doing less work of higher quality

Kushal Tandon is making a second appearance on television as the lead in the new programme Barsatein – Mausam Pyaar Ka. The actor must manage his own restaurant company, so he only accepts projects that appeal to his artistic side. In the 2020 online series Bebaakee, he was last seen on television. Kushal has since spoken about the show’s storyline and what motivated him to take the part in an interview with Hindustan Times. Also read: Kushal Tandon apologises to Sidharth Shukla after quitting social media out of disgust: “I’m sorry, Sid.”

You’re back on television with this programme after more than five years. Why are you featured in just a few shows?
Better is less. I solely believe in producing high-quality work with little effort. I produced a couple online series and a ZEE5 film after Beyhadh. Both that plus my restaurant business kept me quite occupied. Additionally, there was Covid. When a good opportunity arises, I seize it. I don’t simply do it for fun like in a Saas-Bahu drama. This was the first sweet love tale to emerge after Beyhadh. I was informed by Ekta ma’am that she only wanted me to do this part since she had specifically written it with me in mind.

What distinguishes Barsatein from other romantic television programmes?
It’s a really realistic young-adult love tale. How Reyansh runs a news organisation and takes great care in selecting his articles. He is an extremely upright man who rejects both conformity and feminist ideals. He keeps a wall around himself and never allows anybody to pass it. He is very pleasant and skilled in his field. To speak the truth, he challenges ministers and other powerful figures. When Aradhna (Shivangi Joshi) enters his workplace, she develops feelings for him. Dil todne wale pe hi dil kyu aata hai, or “Why girls fall for the person who breaks their heart,” is the show’s tagline.

How does your current position vary from your prior work?
I hunt for interesting tales. I’ve always had parts that required me to be slick, attractive, and charming. I aimed for a tough appearance. I’m taking on the role of a newsroom boss for the first time. In the past, I was cast in parts that were practically identical to my personality. I thus want to play a role where I am not required to look nice. I plan to act similarly to Mirzapur very soon. Because I’m from Lucknow, I’m in negotiations with someone. I know that jargon. I’m hoping to get some noteworthy jobs that will allow me to perform more and which will outweigh my personality and appearance.

You previously competed in Bigg Boss and Khatron Ke Khiladi. Which is more carefully written?
Everything is genuine; nothing is staged. It has been nine years since I last took part in any reality programmes since I quit doing them.

Would you wish to compete in Bigg Boss again if given the chance?
Not at all. I was often summoned, sometimes only to be the guest. However, I have only ever done one thing, and it was 8–9 years ago. I will never do it again. I wanted to do anything since I was new and young at the time.

When you are not working on programmes or managing your company, what keeps you busy?
I also have a web series. I’m starting to work in production and am reviewing screenplays for my company. I’ll be performing in it as well.

Starting on July 10 at 8 p.m., the programme will broadcast on Sony.