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Starting as an actor and now a well known name in the entertainment industry, Ashok Kumar Thakur had no idea what fate had in store for him.

Being in the casting world for now for 6 to 7 years, he has experience worth a book.

 

Tell us something about your journey in the industry?

Well, I started as an actor in the industry. I came down to Mumbai only to do acting and never thought of casting. I always wanted to be an actor but I think destiny had some other plans. I have worked as an actor in Lagi Tujhse Lagan and few episodics. I was offered roles, but I wanted to do something different and prominent. I have done theatre and was also an RJ. After doing a lot in theatre and shows, I wanted a high level of work so I started doing casting and working in production houses.

Which shows have you worked in (casting) for so far?

I have casted for Akshay Kumar’s movie Boss. I did shows like Chandragupta Maurya,  Mahima Shani Dev Ki, Surya Puran, Jai Jai Jai Bajarang Bali, Aasman Se Aage, Laagi Tujhse Lagan, Savdhan India, Haunted Nights and Main Na Bhoolungi. I also did Aahat, the season of 2015, and currently, working on CID for the last 6-7 months. Along with television shows, I have also casted for commercials.

Do you believe in launching new faces? 

I do believe that new faces should be launched as seeing the same people can bore the audience. Veteran actors are quite experienced so they can help the youngsters out. But before we cast an actor, we find out everything about them.

What is more difficult – casting for episodic or daily? 

Nothing is difficult in casting. I feel there is more pressure while casting for an episodic show then a daily. In episodic, your cast changes with every episode, you need to find out new faces for each story. In a daily you, however, you have permanent characters so it’s easier.

What are the things that you keep in mind before casting for a particular show?

Understanding a character is very important and also the basic requirement of a writer and producer for a character is most important. Each and every aspect should be kept in mind before casting. Looks are also equally significant. The actor should have good acting skills and fit into the role.

Have you ever faced any kind of  tantrums?

Tantrums are the most common issue in the entertainment industry. We do face all these kind of problems, but by now, I have learnt to handle them.  We have to talk to the artist on a personal level so that we can make them understand and control them.

Which show has the best cast?

That I can’t judge, but I would say that I enjoyed casting for Aasmaan Se Aage as it was all about acting and dancing. Things that I am interested in! On an emotional level, I was and still very connected to Aasmaan Se Aage.

Do you still wish to work as an actor?

Yes, would love to. Only if it were a prominent role.  If work in a show or movie, I want it to be super successful. I want my friends and family to remember me for that and be proud of me.

Good luck Ashok!