Abhinav Shukla aka Dev of STAR One’s Geet – Hui Sabse Parayi is a laidback sort who has a life outside of entertainment. He’s a keen photographer and also an outdoorsy sort who likes trekking in the Himalayas. Abhinav began modeling while studying engineering in Jalandhar. He was goaded into taking part in his college’s ‘Mr. Fresher’ contest, and got his break in modeling in March 2007 with an ad for a deodorant. We spoke to Abhinav to discover the real man behind the character.
Has to be Ladakh. It’s natureâ€™s gift to us.
There is no particular place for me to get hang out. I am okay with spending time at a friendâ€™s house or at good restaurants.
An expression that makes you feel comfortable and inspires other people.
Do you cook? And what?
Yes, some good Punjabi dishes. My paneer curry turns out very tasty!
How many places have you lived in?
Born and brought up in Punjab and now settled in Mumbai.
I am very keen on that. I think this show might be my last and if not film roles, I might go off to New York to study how to become a DOP (director of photography) at the Film Academy.
I am not a keen shopper but I do buy lots of electronic stuff like cameras and lenses.
You seem to be quite a fitness sort.
Oh yes! My hobbies include rock climbing.
Is that reflected in your holidays?
Yes, holidays have to be in Ladakh. I love the Himalayas. Ladakh has everything from its natural beauty to its spiritual side. There is a place called Chantratel Lake, which is heaven.
We heard that you’re a keen photographer. Is that true?
Yes, I was a science student and loved Physics. When I was in the 9th class, I used to make telescopes. I have been fascinated with lenses and optics, you know, the phenomena of lenses and how the light bends. When I participated in Gladrags 2004 I met photographer Munna Singh, who was shooting for swimwear. My fascination developed into an interest and now I’m deeply into it.
Abhinav stars in Geet – Hui Sabse Parayee as Dev, an NRI who has come to Punjab in search of a bride. Dev is all to getting married with Geet this week and has some very romantic scenes before the wed lock with co star Drashti Dhami. Donâ€™t miss the chemistry between charming Dev and shy Geet, Monday to Friday, 9.30 PM only on STAR One.