Manav Gohil needs no introduction. He has nailed diverse characters on television over decades and garnered a loyal fanbase due to his acting skills and charming looks. Currently, he is playing the role of Akshay in ZEE's daily soap titled Main Hoon Aparajita. His character is named Akshay.  

In an exclusive interview with PeepingMoon.com, Manav spoke about the love track with Shweta Tiwari in Main Hoon Aparajita and whether he borrowed real-life experience for playing the part. The actor also shed light on his equation with his on-screen children and reinventing himself with every new show.

Excerpts from the interview:

Can you shed light on the love track in Main Hoon Aparajita?

My character, named Akshay, has lost his memory and doesn't remember anything that happened to him in the last 20 years. He believes he is still in his 20s. That person feels the emotion of love for his now ex-wife. She doesn't because she has been through hardships and remembers everything. The show projects love which is one-sided and situational.

Are you borrowing real-life lessons while playing a romantic hero in the show? 

I believe you get better at romance with age (laughs). Bachpan mein josh hota hai but you can add more many things to romance when you grow older. It isn't just about saying I Love You. There are many things that can be done to show love as you age. I don't think that was possible in the younger days. 

How would you describe your equation with your on-screen daughters?

I have four daughters. I am like their buddy and they love to come and share their challenges, stories, studies, boyfriends, etc. We share a warm relationship with everybody.  

Is it difficult to reinvention with every new daily soap?

It has a lot to do with my desire to grow on a daily basis. As long as I am able to reinvent myself as Manav Gohil, I will be able to bring more to the table. Someone said in my younger days that as an actor, I must travel a lot. Now I understand that you get to learn and understand life better if you travel. In a way, you are able to portray any character with ease.

Does long working hours in the television industry affect your mental well-being as there’s enough TRP competition and pressure?

I don’t take the TRP pressure anymore. That’s not in my control. All I can do is focus on my work and give every scene the best shot. I don't stress over things that aren't in my control. Also, I don’t work 30-40 hours at a stretch; I work only 7 hours a day. I work on myself and make time for my family. I take my breaks and holidays. I believe that’s how the quality of work remains consistent.

You've acted in films and as well as TV shows. Which medium gives you more creative freedom?

I would say TV offers me more creative freedom. I get multiple opportunities to create a scene. In theatre, you are used to doing a scene multiple times and that’s creating a pattern, not a scene. On TV, I can experiment with every scene. If I have to show anger, I can bring in the variety by including a laugh and not necessarily screaming or shouting. I draw my creative satisfaction from television.