‘Appreciation hasn't translated into meatier roles in films’: Gauahar Khan

When an actor is offered the official adaptation of The Office, it’s unlikely that anyone will refuse it because it’s such a cult series. However, Gauahar Khan confesses that she hadn’t  seen a single episode of either the Brit or American version of the show. On the contrary, she signed it because her character and the script appealed to her. 

“Later, I realised it was so popular and there were so many seasons,” laughs the actress, who will be seen as Riya (the boss) in the Hindi version of the comedy. “She is the only serious and intelligent one in this nuthouse of an office and has to be the one with a strong personality,” the actress describes her role. The Bigg Boss 7 winner talks about her third outing on an OTT platform, why she’s not a regular face on the small screen and more.

What are your thoughts ahead of The Office’s release on June 28?

I’m really excited. We shot two seasons back-to-back; it was such a big set-up and it’s an official adaptation, so there are so many expectations from it. I’m nervous but also confident about the script and performances. Three good directors like Rohan Sippy, Debbie Rao and Bumpy also meant that much more experience. I’m sure even hardcore fans of the original series would love it.

How did you prep for your character if you hadn’t seen the original?

When I came on-board, I decided to not watch the original because the role appealed to me just on the basis of the script. I didn’t need a reference to play her. Also, I didn’t want to be under the pressure that it’s such a big show and I have to play the character perfectly. I wanted to bring my own interpretation and flavour. Thankfully, I got a bit of a leeway since it’s been adapted for the Indian audiences. I will watch the original after our version releases (laughs).

This is your third project on the web. What appeals to you about the medium?

I bagged SideHero when I worked with Rohan Sippy on this show. Parchayee was just one episode on Zee5, so, The Office is my second full-length series. I love the fact that big production houses think I have the capability to pull off roles that require strong performers. I get excited to deliver when someone has a challenging portrayal for me. In films, I have done robust roles but they haven’t been lengthy, while here I get both. Also, actors who shine in their roles on OTT platforms get the credit that is due to them.

Gauahar Khan

In spite of good reviews in Rocket Singh: Salesman of the Year (2009), Ishaqzaade (2012), Badrinath Ki Dulhania and Begum Jaan in 2017, why doesn’t one see you on the big screen often?

I don’t know! I’ve been fortunate to get appreciation for my work but that’s somehow not translated into meatier roles. I think people should get together and start a petition (laughs). But, I believe my good work will get me more stuff. Till then, I will be hopeful and patient. I don’t want to take up projects indiscriminately. I’ll wait for the right one.

Is that why you haven’t done fiction on the small screen either?

I enjoy my reality show space on television. When it comes to acting, I’m waiting for a big enough role — I don’t want it just to be a lead but it should be an impactful one.

What else are you working on?

I’m already working on one more series, but I cannot reveal anything about it yet. It will be an amazing show. I’ve signed one more after that and I’ve been busy with my new fashion line that completed a year.