‘Now, I want to do something romantic on celluloid’

In an illuminating interview, Raghav Juyal, the multi-talented actor and dancer, opens up about his latest venture, Gyaarah Gyaarah, which will soon start streaming on Zee5, a series that promises to challenge viewers’ perceptions of time, reality and existence. Known for his eclectic roles and charismatic presence, he dives deep into the intricacies of the show and the enigmatic character he portrays.
Reflecting on the complexity of Gyaarah Gyaarah, Kill fame describes it as “mind-boggling,” a term he doesn’t use lightly. “When I was reading the script, I started questioning my own existence. The entire series is a rollercoaster through time, where the past has already gone, the future is yet to come and the present is perpetually unfolding. This narrative structure is so compelling that it forces both the characters and the audience to grapple with existential questions. It raises the eerie possibility of whether you’re actually there or not,” he explains. The series, produced by the dynamic duo Karan Johar and Oscar-winner Guneet Monga, underlines the kind of high-caliber production that is rare in Indian entertainment.
The Nawabzaade fame’s character in the series stands out for its depth and layers. He describes his role as that of a “dukhi aatma,” a soul laden with sorrow, burdened by a tumultuous past filled with traumas and guilt. “The character is incredibly intriguing and curious, constantly questioning his reality and even his role as a police officer. He is not your typical hero; he’s vulnerable, sensitive and full of contradictions. This cop isn’t just about catching the bad guys; he’s grappling with his inner demons,” he shares. The role required him to undergo a significant transformation, both physically and mentally. “I had to wash out the body language of my previous character, Phani from Kill, and imbue a new rhythm into this character. The challenge was immense, but it was equally rewarding.”
The series, an official adaptation of the acclaimed Korean drama Signal, brings together a talented team led by Umesh Bisht, known for his sensitive storytelling in Pagglait. Juyal elaborates on how Bisht’s nuanced approach to human emotions and experiences adds a rich layer to the series. “Umesh Sir has a unique way of bringing out the subtleties of human life. His understanding of cinema and life itself makes him an exceptional director. Working with him was an enlightening experience,” he notes.
The filming of Gyaarah Gyaarah brought its own set of challenges, especially for Juyal, who found himself back in his hometown of Dehradun, a place that holds a special, albeit relaxed, place in his heart. “Being in Dehradun was nostalgic but also challenging. I’m used to a more laid-back lifestyle there, surrounded by friends who bring me momos and bun tikki. It’s hard to stay disciplined in such a familiar environment. But it was a learning experience, and next time, I’ll approach it with a different mindset,” he admits. The production itself was a test of endurance, as the team shot in freezing temperatures in the mountains, adding a layer of authenticity to the series’ suspenseful and mysterious atmosphere.
He also reflects on the camaraderie on set, especially with co-stars like Dhairya Karwa. “I’ve been very lucky with my co-stars. They’re not just talented but also wonderful people. Dhairya, for instance, has a special connection with Dehradun, just like me. We all shared a bond over our love for the place, even having bornfires during the shoot. Despite the cold, we stayed in character and delivered our best performances,” he recalls.
When asked if he resonated with his character, he candidly responds, “Not much, to be honest. But as an actor, you learn to tap into similar emotions or incidents from your own life to bring authenticity to your role. I drew upon my experiences as a Dehradun boy, incorporating some of those traits into the character. It was a challenging but enriching process.”
As for what the audience can expect, Juyal is confident that Gyaarah Gyraarah will captivate viewers. “These days, content is king. No amount of promotion can compensate for weak content. This series, with its unique blend of time, space, mystery, thriller and suspense, is unlike anything Indian audiences have seen before. It’s an experience that will flip your perception of reality. I urge viewers to ‘Pehle istemal kare, phir vishwas kare’—watch it and then judge. The show will captivate you with its intricate plot and rich storytelling,” he promises.
As for his future projects, Juyal reveals a desire to explore new genres. “I’ve played a range of characters, but now I’d like to do something romantic. I’ve been a villain, a critically acclaimed actor, and a protagonist too; now it’s time for something different. Let’s see, kuch rumani karte hai ab,” he says with a smile.
For his fans and viewers of Gyaarah Gyaarah, the Kill fame has a special message: “Enjoy the story, close all the curtains, make some popcorn, and binge-watch it. The series will blow your mind with its suspense and mysticism. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss.”
As Raghav Juyal continues to explore new horizons in his acting career, Gyaarah Gyaarah marks another significant milestone, showcasing his versatility and dedication to his craft. With its rich narrative and complex characters, the series is poised to leave a lasting impact on audiences, making it a must-watch in the Indian OTT landscape.