Made in Chandigarh: Work in city helped my career as actor in Mumbai, says Sharhaan Singh

A popular actor in the Indian television industry, Sharhaan Singh, 33, has worked in various serials, including Uttaran, Maharana Pratap, KumKum Bhagya, Kasam Tere Pyaar Ki and Sankat Mochan Mahabali Hanumaan. He has also acted in Punjabi films Yaraan Naal Baharaan, Thana Shagna Da and Mr & Mrs 420, even landing roles in Hindi film Padmaavat and Hollywood film Back to Honeymoon. Brands such as Gillette, Samsung, Ponds, Yamaha and Hyundai have also had him as their corporate ambassador.

Hometown

Patiala, Punjab

Family

Singh is unmarried. His father Gulshan Lal Singh is an ex-employee of Punjab Roadways. His mother late Chanderkanta was a homemaker and younger brother Rahul Singh, a film editor, is married and has two daughters.

Education

He completed his schooling from various institutions in Patiala. Later, he took admission in Government Mohindra College, Patiala, and graduated in arts. For postgraduation, Singh opted for the theatre and television department of Patiala’s Punjabi University.

My area of expertise

Acting, especially playing negative characters, comedy and dubbing

My secret sauce

I am a method actor who believes in planning and preparation. I believe if one is well prepared, there’s little chance of going wrong with the work you do. In order to give the best shot, it is important to plan and rehearse before the final execution.

The mantra of success in acting

Determination. Hard work. Planning. These are the three things that will bring you success in acting and in the industry. Being an actor is not an easy job, but if you are determined and ready to work hard without giving up, there’s nothing that can stop you from being successful.

The turning point

Joining the theatre department of Punjabi University, Patiala, was the first turning point as I took the first step in making my dream to act come true.

Other highlights were signing my first Punjabi movie Yaraan Nal Baharaan with Manmohan Singh, one of the finest directors in the Punjabi film industry and playing a character in Uttaran. It opened the doors to the Hindi television industry for me and got me a lot of recognition.

What I owe to Chandigarh

I came over here to work, to begin my career and realise my dreams. The city prepared me for the industry in Mumbai. My first film Yaraan Naal Baharaan was shot here. I also worked in Doordarshan, did some television serials and many music videos. Chandigarh once was what Mumbai is to me now.

Things I like to do when I visit Chandigarh

I like travelling around the city, which has so many gardens. Being at the Sukhna Lake brings me so much peace. Coming to Chandigarh also means catching up with old friends and it’s also the place where I get to listen to the latest Punjabi music tracks. You get the real feel of Punjab over here.

How has the city changed over the years?

I think every other place has undergone a change but for Chandigarh. The city still remains the same. It’s just as well maintained as it was before. Living in Mumbai and experiencing traffic problems daily it feels great to see how organised the city is.

Changes I would want to see in the city

Chandigarh should have a film city as it is the hub of entertainment in the north. Steps should be taken to develop the industry here. Also, the city should upgrade the international airport and start more international flights for better connectivity around the globe.

The best advice I’ve ever got

Manoj Bajpai advised me not to be carried away with success in life. He said that one should always stay grounded to avoid falling hard in case of failure.

My advice to youngsters in my field

If you choose what you think you can do the best, you will automatically be the best. Don’t follow others. Listen to what your heart says. Always value time, set a routine and be punctual.