Shabbir UNPLUGGED, interview from midday Options

[hey_itsme]

(IMG:http://img463.imageshack.us/img463/3/shabbir272ik.jpg)

Extracting an interview from Shabbir Ahluwalia takes lots of phone calls and loads of patience. The guy is a complete recluse.

“What is there to talk about?”, questions Shabbir when I finally pin him down for a Q&A. Here’s Shabbir unplugged on his plans for the year, his hide and seek with the press, and his first crush….

Define 2005. Personal and professional level
It wasn’t that hectic for me as I got a chance to travel abroad as well. I went to Malaysia twice, and also had short trips to UK and USA. Overall, I would say I had a peaceful year. My family also had no complaints, since I spent decent time with them too.

You seem to run away from interviews…
I really don’t know what to talk about. My work speaks for itself. It’s not that I have an allergy to the media, but I prefer maintaining a low profile.

Tell me about Karmic Connection?
I play the role of Mukul who has his own television company. During the course of the show he gets involved in some paranormal incidents, and starts developing interest in occult and such. I am going in for a clean-shaven look and will be dressed in casual clothes, unlike Mulder in X-files to which will people draw comparisons with. I think other than the interest in the world of spirits, I don’t share any traits with Mulder.

You haven’t taken on anything after Kahiin To Hoga. Why?
I have been getting loads of offers, but nothing has excited me. I have to be kicked about the project if I am doing it. At the moment I am more than happy playing Rishi. Lets see where the road leads and what kind of work comes my way.

Is it true that you have notched yourself a Bollywood project?
There are scripts and roles I am looking at, but nothing has finalised yet. I definitely want to do films, but don’t want to jump into anything for the sake of it. I want to do crazy stuff, where I could be a hero, a villain, or even a character role. I am open to anything that gives me a kick and challenges me. If everything works out fine, then very soon I would be working in a movie.

You’ve won awards for your style. Define your style.
Comfort comes first. I like to have a relaxed style of dressing, where I can wear denims and a t-shirt and just lounge around. I love chappals, you will see me wearing them even on my sets.

Lets talk about the Nach Baliye experience.
When I was offered the show, I was totally clueless about it. In fact I didn’t even get back with a ‘yes’ right away. But when I decided to go ahead with it, I gave it my best shot. It was an amazing experience. There were some emotional moments for me, when some of my friends were voted out.

It was heart-breaking. Can I dance? Let me just say that I can survive on the dance floor. Working with Sangeeta was fun, she has no hang ups and is chilled-out like me. I like being in the company of people who are relaxed.

You’ve managed to stay away from any link-ups. How come?
I am very clear about what I want from life at this stage. I don’t want to get involved in any emotional business. I definitely want to settle down at a later stage, but right now I don’t have time for a girl. My work and career is my Number One priority. Once I realise the goal I have set for myself, I can think about my love life.

Ekta named you as one of the persons she can’t live without. Comment.
Ekta is one of my very close friends. She is also my philosopher and I respect her for what she has achieved at such a young age. There are times when she gives me advice, praises my work, at the same time corrects me where I go wrong. She takes a personal interest in every show, and makes sure everything is up to the mark. I really look up to her.

You don’t get along with the new Sujal – Gurpreet. True?
Completely untrue. Gurpreet is a very hardworking guy and is really sweet. I have no issues with him whatsoever. In fact Rajeev was also great to work with.