"Do Deewane Seher Mein" star Siddhant Chaturvedi says he has made a mark in the Hindi film industry as an outsider without much "networking and PR," as he believes the only way to succeed is to stay honest to his craft.
The actor's first film was "Life Sahi Hai" in 2016, which he followed up with the OTT series "Inside Edge". He gained significant recognition with the 2019 film "Gully Boy", where he played a street rapper.
The 32-year-old actor, whose performances in films such as "Kho Gaye Hum Kahan" and "Dhadak 2" have been appreciated, says he travels, meets people from different walks of life, and reads not just about cinema but about the world to stay grounded.
"I'm bad at networking and PR. I don't know how to position myself. Isn't my work the way to tell people about the authenticity I possess?
"The only way I maintain my integrity is to know what corruption is, and coming from humble beginnings, I've seen everything. I believe innocence, purity, authenticity, and minimalism are going to be the new ways of life in the next 15 years. We've maximized the world with information, and everyone is a superstar," he told
Chaturvedi, born in Uttar Pradesh's Ballia district, was pursuing a degree in chartered accountancy but quit to focus on his budding acting career. His father is a CA by profession.
"The choices I've made as an actor may not be the most commercially viable, but I know that I've done it with the purest intentions, without any malice or shortcuts. Honesty is the only tool I have. So, that's where I give my 100 percent, forget about everything, and immerse myself in the character's world," the actor said, adding that he also prefers to be "transparent and honest" in his relationships and personal life.
Referencing an old interview where Hollywood star Al Pacino talked about the fleeting nature of fame, Chaturvedi says he prefers to keep a low profile and focus on his craft.
"There are many things to learn in life, and not just this (acting). I'm just a seeker," he said.
The actor is set to bring this authentic energy to the upcoming rom-com "Do Deewane Seher Mein," produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Zee Studios. Starring opposite Mrunal Thakur, the film marks a full-circle moment for Chaturvedi, who has been eager to explore this genre since his debut.
Directed by Ravi Udyawar, the film chronicles the "imperfectly perfect" love story of Chaturvedi's Shashank and Thakur's Rohini.
"I wanted to do a rom-com, and I waited for my time because not many were being made. So, when I heard the script (of 'Do Deewane…'), and it's with Ravi sir and Mrunal, I thought, this is a perfect combination, and Bhansali sir is producing it; I couldn't have asked for anything better. So, here we are with this beautiful, enduring, warm, and breezy rom-com."
"Do Deewane Seher Mein" will be released in cinemas across the country on February 20.
