Keshav Uppal, who is currently seen in Lionsgate Play’s first original Indian production series Hiccups and Hookups, talks about it and more

Tell us something about your journey from Canada to Bollywood…

Growing up in Canada, I was always fond of dancing and imitating others. When I moved to India for the first time, I started acting in school plays. After spending a few years in Chandigarh, I went back to Canada for high school and university with the target of moving to Mumbai to become an actor. And that’s exactly what I did!

How did you get your first break?

I remember essaying a cameo in Dear Zindagi; it was my first job right out of film school and I was on cloud nine because it was a Dharma film. I had e-mailed my pictures and six months later, their office called me for an audition, which was a big deal for me.

What responses are you receiving for Hiccups and Hookups?

I’ve been hearing all good things so far and quite happy with the reviews the show is getting. People are enjoying it.

How was your experience of working with Ridhi Dongra and Barun Sobti in Cold Mess?

My experience with Barun and Riddhi was actually a lot of fun. They’re both great human beings and we all spent some quality time together, on and off the sets in Serbia, and now doing the same in Mumbai. Barun is a great co-actor and Riddhi is an incredible actress.

How was the experience of shooting in Serbia?

Serbia was just the best. Beautiful country, amazing crew, gorgeous sets, incredible food; you name it, Serbia had it all.

What is your dream role?

I have more than one but if I had to pick something at the moment, I would say I want to do an all-out Bollywood Karan Johar movie because I related the most to them growing up.

Any directors in your wish-list you want to work with?

Abhishek Kapoor, Zoya Akthar and Shashank Khaitan.

What is your learning from 2021 and resolution for 2022?

I learnt that being happy is what makes you attractive and puts you at the right place, at the right time. My resolution is just to continue to be happy.

What is your success mantra?

I wouldn’t call it a success mantra as of now because I have a lot more to accomplish, but we can call it a ‘survival mantra’ and that is — no matter what the circumstances are, never let anyone control your happiness.