Q & A WITH NEERAJ KABI

Neeraj Kabi’s aim on a set is simple — less socialising, more characterising. Kabi talks about the various spectrums of a role, his Paatal Lok prep, and what defines the parts he chooses to play

- Jigar Shah

It’s been only eight years since the film fraternity was introduced to Neeraj Kabi and his acting. He has shown terrific talent in all the opportunities that have come his way, with films like Ship of Theseus, Talvar, Sacred Games, Hichki, Once Again, and more. In his latest web show, Paatal Lok on Amazon Prime, he plays a prime-time journalist, with an assassination target on his back.

As an actor who has also done theatre (acting and direction), what’s your process? Do you still go through first-day anxieties, given you have done so much in a short span?

I ensure I do my homework for the role, which includes discussions with the writers and directors. I carry all my notes with me to the location. When I step on to the set, it does feel like I'm about to appear for an exam, but there is no room for anxiety, because I'm always prepared. Though certain things are not mentioned in the script, you discover them as you play the character. I like being immersed in my work. When I'm performing a role, it's a love affair between me and my character that I'm exploring, and that's the reason I avoid socialising on sets.

You are also an acting coach. Have you passed on any acting tips picked up from your co-actors, to your students?