Manav Vij, a talented actor who has made a significant mark in the Hindi film industry, has recently been seen in prominent roles alongside superstars like Aamir Khan in Lal Singh Chaddha and Akshay Kumar in Samrat Prithviraj. His performance in the web series Tanaav also garnered much appreciation. During a recent visit to Delhi, Manav opened up about his life, his roots in Firozpur, and the path that led him from practising Homeopathy to becoming an actor. Here are some highlights from our conversation with him.
The Unlikely Beginning: A Doctor Turned Actor
Manav Vij’s journey into the world of acting is as unconventional as it gets. When asked about how he first considered entering the acting profession, he recalled, “I think it was my own decision. But when I shared it with my family, they couldn’t stop laughing. My mother used to joke about my looks, saying, ‘Look at your face, your nose is like a pakora. How will you become a hero?’” Despite the light-hearted teasing, Manav’s family was very supportive, especially his mother, who had initially hoped he would become a doctor. Manav did complete his studies to become a Homeopathic doctor, a fact he only recently revealed to the world.
It was after his mother’s passing that Manav began to take acting more seriously. “Her death changed me in many ways,” he shared, adding that his mother’s influence has been profound throughout his life. “She was an amazing guru. My wife encouraged me to share my truth with the world, and that’s when I started focusing on my acting career more earnestly.”
From Firozpur to Mumbai: A Journey of Passion
Growing up near the border town of Firozpur, Manav’s journey to becoming an actor was anything but typical. “I’ve always been a bit of a rebel,” he explained. “I was a combination of a lover and a rebel. I could fall in love very easily, and this wasn’t just limited to girls. It’s just who I am.” His love for life, coupled with his rebellious spirit, helped him navigate the challenges of the entertainment industry.
Surprisingly, Manav doesn’t see his journey as one of struggle. “The real struggle is when your family doesn’t believe in you. But my family’s trust in me was so strong that it overshadowed any struggle I might have faced,” he reflected. He recalled a time when his car tyre punctured, and instead of getting frustrated, he laughed it off, showcasing his positive outlook on life. He also mentioned how deeply he admires Gurdas Maan, considering him both a friend and a guru.
Embracing Challenges and Imperfections
Manav’s role in Tanaav marked a significant moment in his career, where he transitioned into a leading role. “I’ve played many different characters before, but Tanaav was special. I was stepping into the shoes of a hero, and I wanted to bring something unique to the role,” he said. Manav requested the director to make the hero’s character more imperfect, which was a bold move that paid off. To embody the role, he gained weight, reaching 105 kg and wearing pants with a waist size of 40. His dedication to the character was evident, and it resonated well with the audience.
Kashmir: A Place Close to His Heart
The shooting of Tanaav took Manav to Kashmir, a place he holds dear. “Kashmir is my favorite place. The experience of shooting there was wonderful,” he reminisced. He noticed a significant change in the atmosphere between his first and most recent visits, with a reduction in military presence and a more relaxed vibe among the locals. The warmth and hospitality of the people left a lasting impression on him. “Whenever I’m in Kashmir, I feel a sense of happiness. The beauty of the place and the kindness of the people make it special,” he added.
Manav also shared some cherished memories from his time in Pahalgam, a picturesque town in Kashmir. “I used to leave the hotel in the evening just to grab a coffee. Spending an hour there would make me forget all my worries,” he said, highlighting the tranquillity that Kashmir offers.
A Fresh Take on an International Favorite
Fauda, the Israeli series on which Tanaav is based, is one of Manav’s favourite shows. “When I watched Fauda, I told my wife that I could play a role like that. So when the opportunity to be part of its remake came, it felt like a dream come true,” he said. Manav praised the team behind Tanaav, particularly the director, Sudhir Mishra, whom he described as a “magician” for his ability to reimagine the original series rather than simply remake it.
Manav Vij’s journey from Firozpur to the glitzy world of Bollywood is a testament to his passion, resilience, and unwavering belief in himself. As he continues to take on diverse roles, he remains a figure of inspiration for those who dare to dream big, regardless of where they come from.
