Gaurav Gera as Nandu in ‘Jassi…’ wishes to get a makeover

Is it true that ‘Jassi…’ is drawing to a close?
These rumours have been rife since the past year. One never knows what may happen tomorrow. But as of now we haven’t been told that the show is shutting down.

What would you attribute Nandu’s popularity to?
His proximity to Jassi and staying by her through thick and thin has made him endearing. His lines are those of an ‘underdog’ but they are innocent. He is a Jassi loyalist. This evokes audience sympathy. Everyone wants to have a dependable brother and confidante like Nandu.

Does the Nandu image hinder your chances with girls?
In Mumbai, people have seen me as I am. But in small towns it does make a difference.  People are shocked when they see the real me. They feel I look much better in person.  If ‘Jassi…’ was the only show I was doing then I would have been stuck with this image. But I do ads and other shows. So it doesn’t really matter. I am not contract bound to play Nandu.

Are you getting stuck in the comedy groove?
This is bound to happen. I love doing comedy and have a natural flair for it. But I have also done a negative character in ‘C.I.D’. I would love to play an obsessed lover like Shah Rukh Khan in ‘Darr’. Playing a lover boy is otherwise too boring.

Do you at times get bored playing Nandu?
Not at all! I only wish the look would change. Even Jassi tells Nandu, “apna chashma badal” or else you will not get a Valentine. But I guess Nandu will not be as lucky as Jassi and get a makeover.

Did the show’s ratings slide due to Jassi’s makeover?
Jassi had to get a makeover because it was intrinsic to the story. I don’t think TRPs went down because of that - though the story did lose its bearing for a while. But now the producers are trying to get the old cast back. They want Manini De and Parmeet Sethi to return.

Is there a woman in your life?
After a broken relationship I have decided to enjoy my freedom. I do not want to become a one woman-man as of now. I will let down my hair and enjoy!