Following your passion isn’t easy but everything is possible, says actor Swadesh Mishra. Here’s a candid chat with him

When did you decide to choose acting as a career?

I always wanted to be an actor. After one year of B-tech course, I finally had the courage to tell my parents about my passion and my will to pursue it.

When and how did you bag your first project?

First project is always special for any actor. I was visiting many production houses at that point of time to meet casting directors and, as luck would have it, I was at the right place at the right time. They were looking for a negative character and I was selected.

How was your working experience in the show Vidya?

I learnt a lot of technicalities from Vidya, we had a great team, it was such a pleasant experience shooting with such a professional team. Vaquar Sheikh who played Nanku Singh in the show played the role of mentor for me personally as well as professionally.

You have mostly played negative roles; how do you ensure that each character is different from the other?

Every person does a certain set of things with a different mindset; even if we see real life, no two people can be the same. Thus, even if I play negative characters repeatedly there is always a scope of individuality.

How do you prepare for any role?

Preparation starts once you know about the story and what your character brings to the story. Once you’ve answered the questions about your character, preparation becomes easy.

Do you wish to work on OTT?

Yes, obviously I would love to be on OTT. I love the rawness that OTT brings. It really challenges the actor.

Who is your inspiration in acting?

There are a lot of people I draw my inspiration from. Manoj Bajpayee, Pankaj Tripathi, Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Naseeruddin Shah are a few.

What’s your mantra of success?

Hard work is the key; keep hitting the wall till it breaks.

Any upcoming projects?

Yes, there are few projects in the initial phases. Will let you know once things are finalised.