Honestly, there isn’t much coming my way: Mohnish Bahl

The Hum Saath Saath Hain actor Mohnish Bahl talks about why he took a break from acting, how he isn’t getting the kind of roles he prefers and why TV shows takes a huge toll.

Mohnish Bahl has been on a hiatus. The actor, who has been a part of movies such as Hum Saath Saath Hain (1999) and Astitva (2000), has also proved his mettle on TV with shows like Sanjivani and Kuch Toh Log Kahenge. After a break of over two years, he is back on the small screen as the host of a new crime show Hoshiyaar. He says he likes to be filled with purpose, and so, does not pick up every project that came his way.

Mohnish Bahl admits that working in a TV show needs dedication and long hours and at 55, he wants to slow down.

Why have you been away from acting?

I am not getting the roles I’d like to get in films. I don’t want to reduce my body of work, because if you do one role that’s not up to the mark, your brand value drops. I am turning down what is coming my way, and honestly, there isn’t much coming my way.

Mohnish in a still of TV show Kuch Toh Log Kahenge with co-star Kritika Kamra.

What about television projects?

As far TV is concerned, unfortunately, TV shows in the last decade have increased the number of episodes per week. They have gone from four to seven episodes in a week now. That requires a commitment of about 15-20 days a month, and more than 12 hours a day. Even if I want to take up a show, I physically can’t do so much work, as I am 55 and want to slow down. Also, I don’t think I can do one role for over a year, playing the same character everyday. Acting, for me, is not mechanical. Hats off to people who do it, but I can’t. I get saturated after about three schedules or so, as after a point, there is nothing new to do. It could be due to my experience in films, where you shoot for six months at most, and then it’s done.

“I don’t want to reduce my body of work because you do one role that’s not up to the mark and your brand value drops. I am saying no to what is coming my way and honestly, there isn’t much coming my way.”

What do you think of crime shows on TV?

Unfortunately, crime is a part of our lives. Crime shows are good, but I wouldn’t like to watch too many of them, as they can be a downer.

Do you enjoy hosting as it showcases your personality?

That is not the primary reason. I am an actor and I like to play characters. Also, when I am hosting, I need to identify with the show as well. I don’t see myself as a light-hearted host, as I don’t have that personality. I wouldn’t be able to do that.

Mohnish with his wife Ekta Bahl