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Vicky Arora, who has featured in late Raj Kaushal’s last directorial, has been garnering praise from all quarters for his turn. From featuring in multi-starrers to bagging his first international series with Gurinder Chadha–he has indeed come a long way. In an exclusive interview with ETimes, Vicky opened up about his fond memories with Raj, the casting couch experience he faced in the industry, an actor he looks up to in Bollywood, and more. Excerpts…

How does it feel to bag a lead role in a series after all these years of struggle?
I thank God for his guidance and love. To everyone who has been a part of my life and journey, I wholeheartedly thank you and express my gratitude. Every drop in the ocean counts and I would never forget those who helped me sail through troubled waters for they deserve a part of this reward. It was not easy. It took me 6210 auditions, double the number of rejections, nine years, shattered confidence, and numerous prayers. I even faced the casting couch in the same Andheri incident that Ranveer Singh described in his 2015 interview. The same sleazy gentleman who harassed Ranveer Singh, tried to negotiate with me too, and when I said ‘no‘, he was heartbroken like a jilted lover.

How did you come on board for the show?
I had worked with Raj Kaushal sir on a couple of ad films before, and he knew my skills. I got a surprise phone call from him in 2020 and these were his exact words, “Buddy I’m making a show, the character’s name is Bhargav, and YOU ARE DOING THIS”. I just could not say no.

Tell us about your first meeting with Raj Kaushal?
He had an infectious smile that warmed your heart and made you feel welcome. He was really passionate and dedicated towards making something great. He was kind, caring, and would always make you feel special.

How did you take the news of his sudden demise?
I had contracted COVID and was under home quarantine when Jitu Savlani, a common friend, messaged me in the morning to inform me about Raj’s demise. It felt as if someone had punched a large hole into my heart. It’s difficult, even today, to imagine that he’s no more.

What is that one thing you will always fondly remember about him?
I will always fondly remember his smile, the sparkle in his eyes, his words, his passion for work, and his belief in me.

You have done a few but impactful roles in your career so far. Which one is the closest to your heart and why?
In a brand campaign on ‘unlikely friendship’, I played the role of a deaf-mute friend. To be able to become the voice of a mute guy was one of the most heartwarming roles to perform. I feel honoured even today. Also, ‘Nitishastra’ with Taapsee Pannu was special. It was my first experience working with a celebrated star. I thank Kapil Verma (the director) for the opportunity.

How was it to be a part of the international series ‘Beecham House’, and working under Gurinder Chadha?
It is, by far, the biggest project that I ever worked on. I’ve always enjoyed learning about history. It was quite fascinating to be working in a period drama. The entire cast and crew is really diverse–people from all parts of the world were working on this series and it was really exciting to collaborate with all of them. Gurinder Chadha is a powerhouse and a delight to work with. Every day we would say, ‘Sat Shri Akal’ to each other and begin shooting.

You have worked with Taapsee Pannu. Today, she has grown by leaps and bounds as an actor. What are your thoughts on her?
Taapsee Pannu is the most humble person to work with. My first impression of her was ‘typical Dilli wali ladki’. But she’s a force to reckon with, a kind soul and a powerhouse of talent. Apart from beating me to death in the film ‘Nitishastra’, we had some cute brother-sister moments on the sets.

Theatres have opened up again. Is there any film you are eagerly waiting to watch on the silver screen?
I am eagerly waiting for ‘RRR’, directed by SS Rajamouli that releases on January 7. I am also excited and eagerly waiting for my film, ‘OM: The Battle within’ starring Aditya Roy Kapur and Sanjana Sanghi, as I’m sure it’s going to be a blockbuster.

Is there anybody you look up to as an actor in the industry?
Ranveer Singh inspires me a lot. There’s not a single performance of his that I didn’t enjoy. I loved all of them. He’s not just a great actor but a complete package and a total entertainer.

What are the kind of movies you would want to be a part of?
The kind of movies that convey a social message, something to learn from, the kind of movies that help as an escape because everyone deserves an escape from routine life, comedy movies because they put a smile on everyone’s face, and action movies, since I have years of training in screen action.