In a career that's steadily rising, actor Harry has taken on a variety of roles that showcase his versatility and commitment to his craft. With the upcoming release of Based on True Events - IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack, Harry steps into one of his most challenging roles to date, playing a character entangled in one of India's most harrowing real-life events. In this interview, he opens up about his process, the weight of portraying real-life incidents, and how his career has been shaped by the projects he's worked on so far.
1. Harry, what drew you to the role of a hijacker in "Based on True Events - IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack"?
The opportunity to portray a character involved in such a pivotal moment in history was immediately intriguing. The hijacking of IC 814 is one of those events that left a lasting impact on the country, and being part of a project that tells this story allowed me to explore the emotional and psychological complexity of such a role. The challenge was in understanding the motivations behind the hijacker, and I was drawn to the layered nature of the character.
2. How did you prepare for your role in the series, considering it's based on real-life events?
Preparation for this role required a deep dive into the actual events of the hijacking. I read books written by the pilot of the ill-fated flight, Flight Into Fear by Capt. Devi Sharan, and IC 814 Hijacked by flight engineer Mr. Anil K. Jaggia. I studied the timeline, the key figures involved, and tried to understand the socio-political backdrop of that time. I also worked closely with Anubhav Sir and writer Trishant Srivastava to ensure that while the character was fictionalized for dramatic effect, it stayed grounded in realism. Physically and mentally, it was about capturing the tension and unpredictability of the situation.
3. What was your experience like working on "Laal Singh Chaddha" and "Lootere"? How did those projects shape your career?
Both Laal Singh Chaddha and Lootere were incredible experiences. Working alongside a stellar cast and crew, especially on a film like Laal Singh Chaddha, which is so iconic in its storytelling, helped me refine my craft. Each project brought new lessons—Lootere challenged me with its action-heavy sequences, and I had a great time working with Jai Mehta and my co-actors, while Laal Singh Chaddha was more about subtlety in performance. These experiences have shaped me as an actor and pushed me to explore new depths in my characters.
Insightful Questions:
1. What do you think sets "Based on True Events - IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack" apart from other thrillers in Indian cinema?
What makes IC 814 stand out is the gravity of it being based on a real-life incident that is still etched in the memory of many. Unlike fictional thrillers, there's a weight of responsibility in telling the story truthfully while keeping the audience on the edge of their seat. It’s not just about the action or drama but also about delving into the human side of these extreme situations.
2. How do you balance intensity and depth when portraying complex characters?
For me, it's about finding the emotional core of the character. While intensity comes naturally in high-stakes situations like a hijacking, it's the depth—understanding why a character acts the way they do—that creates a lasting impression. Balancing both means immersing myself fully in the character, so the intensity is not just external but comes from a place of inner conflict and conviction.
3. What do you hope audiences take away from your performance in the series?
I hope audiences see the humanity behind the character, even in the midst of a terrifying situation like a hijacking. My aim was to create a portrayal that sparks thought about the complexities of human nature, especially when faced with extreme circumstances. More than just an antagonist, I hope the audience feels the conflict and struggles that this character goes through.
Career-Focused Questions:
1. What's next for you after "Based on True Events - IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack"? Any upcoming projects?
I’m currently exploring a few exciting scripts, some of which delve into entirely different genres. I believe in choosing roles that push me out of my comfort zone, so while I can’t reveal much, I can say that the upcoming projects will showcase a different side of me as an actor.
2. How do you see your role in the series impacting your career trajectory?
This role has been a game-changer for me in many ways. It allowed me to portray a character that’s intense, complex, and crucial to the storyline, which is exactly what I look for in a role. I believe this will open doors to more challenging and diverse roles in the future.
3. What advice would you give aspiring actors looking to make a mark in Indian cinema?
Stay persistent and keep honing your craft. The journey in this industry is filled with ups and downs, but if you remain focused on delivering honest performances, your time will come. Also, be open to learning from every project and every person you work with—it all adds to your growth as an actor.
As Harry steps into a new phase of his career with IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack, it's clear that his dedication to his craft and willingness to tackle complex roles are paying off. With more challenging projects on the horizon, audiences can expect to see even more compelling performances from this rising star in the future.
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