Rakesh Bapat likes making faces

The 'Saat Phere' actor on his other passion—painting and sculpting human faces

MUMBAI: When Rakesh Bapat isn’t showing his skills on the camera, he’s stroking colours on the canvas. “I had won the national level award when I was in the 10 th grade. I like doing abstract paintings and portraits,” he smiles adding, “Right now, I have completed about 10 paintings. I plan to hold an exhibition of my paintings after I am done with a few more.”

Bapat is also into sculpting. “I like making faces. As an artist, I have tried making different expressions of the human face. As a kid, I would make Ganpati idols and sell to earn pocket money. And now I plan to make table pieces, which could be used by people. Engaging myself in these creative things keeps out negative thoughts. It’s a holistic approach.”

On the career front, he’s excited about his re-entry in ‘Saat Phere’. “Neel (his character) is back and is as much in love with Saloni (Rajshri Thakur) as ever. But this time, he’s positive and making amends for all his wrongdoings in the past. He’s engaged to Poonam Joshi when he meets Saloni again.”

Rakesh is also forthcoming about his next venture. “It’s a show called ‘Ek Packet Ummed’ (NDTV Imagine). I am the only guy among 10 ladies. Rupali Ganguly is paired opposite me. It’s going to be launched in January.” Apart from television, he’s also pursuing his first love—films. Probe him about his single status and he’s candid. “I was seeing someone but we broke off. These things happen. Right now I am very much single and like it that way. I can concentrate on my work completely.”