What was your first reaction when they approached you for Silver Cord?
I was stumped! I did not believe that it was true, till I spoke to James Ordonez, who had seen me in Hazaaron Khwaishen Aisi and Life In A Metro, and realised that I was actually short-listed for the role. I was extremely grateful to God for the opportunity, and overwhelmed at being acknowledged for my work.

Did you agree to do the project immediately?
While I was excited at the offer, I did not want to make a hasty decision. So after reading the script which turned out to be excellent, looking at the production and cast which included names like Michael Shane, James Ordonez and Val Kilmer, and after speaking to James Ordonez, the decision to be a part of such a fantastic project was easy.

How did you like the idea of playing a foreigner?
Actually I prefer not to think about it in that context, as it will then be difficult for me to work on my character. Instead I would like to draw on my experience of having travelled frequently to the US and Europe, and my observation of the people there. The way in which they express themselves, are thoughtful of the other's space, and other characteristics that makes their culture so distinct. So, instead of thinking I am playing a foreigner, which actually ends up creating a mind block in me, I prefer to think as if I just belong to a different culture so that my mindset and thought process begins to mimic the individuals of that culture. Then comes the characterisation of the part.

Are you excited about working with Val Kilmer?
I am extremely honoured to have the opportunity to work with Val. His The Saint is my all time favourite. I never expected that there would come a day when I would actually be in the same movie with him. I look forward to the experience with a mixture of awe and excitement.

How did you feel when the producer Micheal Shane compared you to Paul Newman?
I cannot describe the feeling. I felt acknowledged and at the same time I know that Paul Newman is a legend no one can come close to. In all humility, it means that I have a yardstick that I am not sure I can fully measure up to. That is a huge responsibility that I hope to do justice, not just in this project, but also otherwise.

When do you start shooting for the film?
The film is slated to begin sometime in the last quarter of this year.

Which are the other projects you are working on?
Besides Har Pal, I have two other projects. But I cannot speak about them as yet as I am contract-bound.

How do you select your films?
The script is first and foremost. Then comes the director, the team and the production house.

You tried your hand at action in Hijack. What would you like to attempt now?
I would love to do another action flick. Just because Hijack did not work, it does not necessarily mean that I am unable to deliver an action-adventure flick. Actually I would like to work in different genres. In Har Pal I play this lovable, chilled out character, completely unlike any role I have done in the past.