Speaking with Subhash K Jha, actor-singer Vedang Raina talks about his experience working on Imtiaz Ali’s Main Vaapas Aaunga, singing for AR Rahman and delves into how he feels his career is going so far, plus more!
You were at the Wagah border with Rahman recently. What was that experience like?
It was unbelievable! One of the best days of my life. It was so amazing to see Rahman sir perform ‘Maa Tujhe Salaam’ and to see thousands of people singing along.
A R Rahman has praised your voice in Main Vaapas Aaunga?
It’s one of the biggest compliments of my life. I think he’s a genius, and I’ve been the biggest fan of his work since I was a little boy. I still can’t fathom that he really said this. But luckily, it’s on camera, so I know I was not dreaming, ha ha.
Main Vaapas Aaunga gave you a rare opportunity to play a Sardar, how much discipline and dedication did that require?
It’s the most I’ve had to put in for a role. I had to completely transform myself physically and mentally, and feel comfortable in my new self. It was also just such a privilege to put a pag on and play this character. This was a special experience, and I hope people feel the same way.
The film is set during the Partition, as a displaced Kashmiri Pandit, how closely did you identify with the theme?
I’ve heard stories of the partition, the same I’ve heard stories from my parents and grandparents about Kashmir. How we had to leave our home behind. I very strongly get this feeling of returning home. Of getting back what was mine and lost. I could carry that feeling into this world of our film as well.
Between Archies and Main Vaapas Aunga, how much change do you feel as an actor?
I think I’ve grown a lot. And if you know me personally, you would know that these words don’t come easily to me, especially about myself. I really feel that difference when I’m on set and also in my preparation. I also believe that I’ve grown so much as a human being from all the experiences I’ve had in the past couple of years, that I could carry that into my craft.
How would you describe your vibes with your immediate co-star Sharvari in Main Vapas Aaunga?
I have a very good equation with Sharvari. We became really good friends through the course of this film, and it was genuinely such a great experience working with her. I find her outlook very similar to mine, and I love that we both are very driven towards what we’re doing. I’ll always be rooting for her.
You are only three films old, what have you learnt about the film industry in this short time?
I’ve learned that things take time. And what’s most important is to work on yourself and deliver when it’s important. Nothing else matters. What people around you tell you to worry about, it’s usually never relevant. Everything falls into place when you’re good at what you do. And that’s my only goal. I hope I reach a place where I can do work that genuinely moves people. That’s my mission.
