First time I am playing such larger-than-life character, says Salil Ankola on 'Karamphal Data Shani'

Mumbai: Cricketer-turned-actor Salil Ankola, who is playing 'Suryadev', the father of 'Shani' on Colors' new show "Karamphal Data Shani" was very sceptical about playing any mythological character on screen.

"I was always sceptical about doing a mythological drama. This is the first time I am playing such a larger-than-life character like 'Suryadev'. While going through the process of understanding the character, I realised I can neither underplay nor overplay it, rather I have to find a midway to convincingly portray it. 

"Thankfully I am working with a great director like Siddharth (Kumar Tewary) who is such a perfectionist and helping me with right brief to get all the nuances right," Salil told IANS.

The actor, who underwent physical training to wear a 22-kg costume, said, "When you look at the outcome you feel the satisfaction. Yes, the costume is heavy but it is going well with my physic and the look has come out fantastic. Hard work pays you see (smile)."

Salil, who started his journey as a cricketer but had to retire due to injury, successfully managed to earn fame on small screen as an actor. 

"Acting is fun, because you can live with so many different characters on screen and portray them convincingly," Salil said.

Though he was a sportsman, as a kid he was very quiet and loved reading mythology. 

"I was always interested to know the mystery behind how the planet was created, the spirituality, astronomy etc. since I have a strong physique from childhood, people used to call me 'Bheem'. Now that I am playing 'Suryadev', I am exploring my all time favourite genre again."

"Karamphal Data Shani" is written, directed and produced by Siddharth Kumar Tewary under his company Swastik Pictures. 

The show will be premiered on November 7.