 "Sharib Hashmi on Zee5’s film ‘Khoj’: ‘This character was very challenging for me because…’")
Sharib Hashmi and Anupriya Goenka have come together for a film called Khoj. It’s the story of a man whose wife has disappeared under mysterious circumstances and the thriller films his helplessness and horror as a mysterious lady masquerades as his better half. It’s now streaming on ZEE5. And director Prabal Baruah and Sharib spoke about it.
Prabal Baruah on the germ of the idea
The germ of the idea did not come from me. It came from the broadcasters. The idea of the story has been developed by Zee. It is their concept in their idea, and I was just pitched as the director. I have been largely directing thrillers almost my entire life so that happens to be my first love.
Sharib on the prep for his role
The script did half of my job because it is so well written. My character was hidden within the pages. The entire cast did a lot of reading for three days, which helped us a lot. It was also a bit challenging because every character of mine has a bit of humorous touch. There’s no humor here. Zero and zilch. This was an intense character for me and I really enjoyed playing it. We rigorously shot for it. We used to laugh during the shoot and I really enjoyed the process.
Prabal on his film’s Star cast
I’m working with my actors for the first time and when you work with somebody for the first time, there is always an element of surprise. Sharib’s work I’ve seen so that I knew him as an actor. Both him and Anupriya were delightful to work with as actors. I really had fun working with them. We don’t know each other but our personal chemistry shows in the series. You’ll see the good vibes and happy vibes. He’s someone who doesn’t forget his lines.
Also, this is not the same story as Rishi Kapoor’s Khoj. I have added a lot of things to the story and there are a lot of things Sharib has added. There are dozens of films that look the same.
Sharib on his Bollywood journey
It has been a beautiful journey with lots of ups and downs and hardships. I cherish my journey a lot and I’m proud to have taken that plunge and leap of faith. I took this decision very late because I was about to turn 33. That was the time I wanted to be an actor. That’s the time when most of the people are settled in life, and I was married and had a child also. The next three years were a nightmare for me. When I look back, I smile and feel happy.