Meet with Luv Sinha, the son of seasoned actor and politician Shatrughan Sinha
BY SUPRIYA DAVDA | MAY 4, 2010
Having grown up in a family where most conversations revolved around films to politics, it was no surprise that Shatrugan Sinha’s son decided to follow in his father footsteps.
Entertainment correspondent Supriya Davda caught up with the Shotgun’s son Luv Sinha who made his unconventional debut in 'Saadiyan' released last month. Though it didn’t sizzle the silver screen Luv is determined to make his mark in Bollywood.
Q. Having grown up in a family where conversations were revolved around films do you think it was an organic movement for you to enter films?
A. I decided to enter films because I have always been a creative person by nature, and I felt that being an actor is one of the most challenging professions that one can choose. You put yourself in front of others to be judged, and you have to prove it not only to them but also to yourself that you have it in you. I'd say the challenge of proving myself and the love that I have for Indian Cinema were what made me want to become an actor.
Q. Why did you choose to debut in 'Saadiyan'?
A. I have always stated that the main reason that I chose this film was because I got the opportunity to work with legendary actors such as Mr Rishi Kapoor, Rekha Ji, and Hema Ji. My next project will be something that presents me in a completely different manner and will make people realise that the character in 'Sadiyaan' was a character and does not represent how I really am.
Q. Being your father’s son, did it work to an advantage or disadvantage? Weren't you afraid of comparisons being made?
A. I'd say it’s an advantage nor a disadvantage, depends on who is talking about it. For me I'm proud to be his son and would not say that it was a disadvantage for me. Obviously people are aware of me due to me being a part of the industry but as far as getting work is concerned people will want to see some potential in you before they decide to produce a film with you as an actor. If people feel that you fit a role then they will take you irrespective of your background. My father was not from the industry but he managed to become a superstar. Mr Hrithik Roshan is the son of a great director and he became a superstar as well. There is no guarantee for any of us. The only thing that takes you ahead is your hard work and luck. I'm not afraid of being compared to him as he is a great actor and I know that he has 40 years of experience on his side while my journey has just begun. Once you understand what you have to do then being compared does not deter you, in fact it motivates you to do even better.
Q. What advice had your father given you once you had said you wanted to become an actor?
A. He said that whatever situation you are in, try to do your best and work as hard as you can. Nothing is permanent, neither success nor failure and you have to just be strong and keep on marching ahead. He
told me that I will have to forge my own path if I want to achieve my dreams. There will be times when you will feel tested, but its then when you have to dig deep inside and stand your ground.
Q. 'Saadiyan' had some fine actors, Rishi Kapoor, Rekha and Hema Malini didn’t you think they’d take the limelight away from your debut?
A. I feel that they added to the movie and helped me to grow as an actor. The fact that people have appreciated me in the scenes that I had to perform with them reveals that their presence on the set helped me perform better as well. Film making is a team effort and your work depends on who your director is as well as who your co-stars are. I'm happy that I got the chance to work with such great actors and it was an experience that I will never forget
Q. What kind of films are you looking to do now?
A. I'm considering doing something that is more contemporary and slick, which will present me in a completely different way. I'd love to do a romantic comedy, or a movie which deals with contemporary issues like 'New York' or something made by Abbas and Mustan. There are a lot of talented directors in our industry and I'd love to work with them.
Q. Who are you most eager to work with in terms of film-makers/banners?
A. I'd say some of the film makers I'd love to work with are Mr Ashutosh Gowariker, Karan Johar, Kabir Khan, Anurag Basu, Shirish Kunder, Farah Khan, Mr Mani Ratnam, and Mr Raj Kumar Santoshi. I want to work with directors who are willing to tap my potential and push me beyond what I'm capable of. People who are concerned about every single moment that makes up a film or those that are as passionate as I am about movies. As far as the banners are concerned, when you work with a great director then they usually have a good company backing them so that takes care of a lot of things.
Q. Who do you admire as an actor besides your father?
A. My father is my favourite obviously but I also respect other actors for various reasons such as Mr Salman Khan, Mr Aamir Khan, Mr Akshay Kumar, Mr Hrithik Roshan, Mr Anil Kapoor, Mr Shah Rukh Khan and a few others. I admire them because they have all managed to reach great heights in their own way and have had to overcome obstacles that were in their way. Making a place in the industry is not easy but these are the ones who have and it’s important to learn whatever you can from them.
Q. Apart from films what other interests do you have? Do you hope to enter politics like your father someday?
A. I'm interested in Mixed Martial arts and pursue it as a hobby. I also do Yoga as I feel it helps you in so many ways. I love working out but am not obsessed about it. I love spending time with my family. I follow politics and am extremely interested in the affairs of my country but to enter politics requires preparation and one should not jump into it without being ready for it. If I do enter it, I would want to enter for the right reasons and at the right time. For now my focus remains on establishing myself as a good actor in the Hindi Film Industry.
Q. Both your siblings are also making a debut in the near future any words of wisdom for them?
A. I don’t think that would be the right thing for me to do as I have just taken my first step. They are both intelligent and I know that they will do what’s right and work hard. We are a united family and are there for each other every step of the way.
Q. Could you tell us anything about upcoming releases?
A. I feel that it’s very important that you work on a project that allows you to display your potential and presents you in the right manner. Things are being worked on at the moment and as soon as there are an official announcement you guys will know for sure.
