Rahul Singh, who is a part of Shubh Laabh, talks about his journey from Jharkhand to Mumbai

How and when did you plan to take up acting as career?

Born and brought up in Bihar, I am the youngest of six siblings. My father is an advocate and politician, my mother is a homemaker. As a child, when my friends played cricket or football, I used to mimic different artistes and even formed a drama group. That’s how I started my journey in acting.

How was your family’s reaction?

My dad wanted me to become a doctor but I wanted to pursue acting. Dad wasn’t convinced with my choice and was scared but my mother understood me and later convinced him and everyone else.

Which show is closest to you and why?

I can never forget the kind of love and recognition I received from Kya Hal Mr Paanchal. In the show I played hundreds of characters. I also cherish hosting Apna News Aayega 2 along with Puja Banerjee.

Have you taken any formal training in acting?

I had done theatre in Jharkhand. When I came to Mumbai, I took training from Kishore Namit Kapoor Acting Institute.

How easy or difficult was it to get your first break?

After I came to Mumbai, for the first five years I did not get any work. I did not want to do cameo roles. During the first two years it was very difficult. But today, 18 years have passed, and I am doing much better.

How did you bag Laughter Express?

I worked as an assistant to creative writer Dhananjay Masoom ji. He gave me an opportunity to write for Laughter Express. One of the days when I narrated a concept I had written for the show, he said, ‘Why don’t you perform?’ I auditioned with the channel and they liked my work. Winning the show was the biggest high and gave me a lot of confidence.

Your character in Shubh Laabh is an interesting one. How would you describe him?

In Shubh Laabh, I am playing the character of a ghar jamai, who is preparing for IAS but not able to clear a single exam. He falls for every girl he sees and then has to wife’s ire for his habit.

Did you have a backup plan?

I had never thought of anything else but acting as my career. So, I don’t know what would have happened if I had failed.