Launch:
Tere Ishq Mein is a romantic thriller. I play a successful, London-based businessman in the film, who falls in love with this lovely girl (played by newcomer Sakeeba) and promptly gets married. Soon after their marriage, the story takes several twists and turns. Director Manoj Kumar, who has made several ad films in Hollywood, has made a really gripping film.

Stepping-stone:
I was always inclined to acting. So after obtaining my degree in engineering from Toronto I came to Mumbai to work in Hindi films. I joined Asha Chandra's acting school and after that did a one- month course with Anupam Kher's school. Learning from these two veterans honed my acting skills to quite an extent.

Casting coup:
The first production house I went to with my portfolio, after I came to Mumbai, was the Venus office. I was told by the staff that they were looking out for a new face for their forthcoming venture Tere Ishq Mein. In the first meeting itself I was asked to do a screen test and promptly signed for the film.

First shot:
The first day of shoot happened by chance. The director, cinematographer and I were location-hunting for a particular scene. As soon as we entered a hotel's coffee shop, the director felt the ambience was perfect and decided to take the shot there and then. I was surprised, but agreed instantly. The shot, which had me walking into the hotel with my heroine, was okayed in the first take. In fact thereafter almost my scenes were okayed in the first take itself!

Stumbling block:
The only hindrance was that I was not from the industry and it took me a little while to find my way around. But I was very lucky that I was signed by the first production house I approached.

Lessons learnt:
I have realised that it is important to believe in oneself if one wants to make it in the industry. Also it's important to groom oneself before trying to get work.

Matinee idol:
I am mesmerised when Aishwarya Rai Bachchan comes on screen. I give full marks for her beauty and acting.