n conversation with television’s most loved and adored Raavan of Star Plus’ Siya Ke Ram, Karthik Jayaram.

How do you feel playing Raavan? You have been accepted by masses!

It feels great to play Raavan as it is one of the best antagonist characters in the world. I feel blessed to play Raavan.

Did you do any research before taking this role?

Well, I had to know the characteristics of Raavan, so I went through a few books like Asura, Raavan, etc. But I worked a lot to create a unique mannerism for Raavan. I used to act in front of the mirror for facial expressions. I also read more of Hindi so that I could understand the language better. I also took a few basic classes of ‘tandav.’

Raavan is an iconic character. Was the previous Ramayan in your mind while taking up the role?

The previous Ramayan didn’t push me to take up this role but the character of Raavan did encourage me to take up the role.

How much do you relate to the character of Raavan?

I feel every individual has good and bad characteristics. Situations drive their reactions. So, sometimes, I do get egoistic. I do become arrogant. But I feel that the best characteristic of Raavan is being “Larger than Life.”

What is the best compliment you have received for the role so far?

People have accepted me as the perfect Raavan which means that I have done justice to the role. Maximum people also say that I am a cute Raavan. These I think are the best compliments that I have received so far.

How has life changed with the success of Siya Ke Ram?

Siya ke Ram has given me global recognition. So I feel it’s a leap to my future opportunities.

What have you learnt from the show?

I have learnt a lot from the show. Acting, knowledge about Ramayan, morals, passion towards the craft, everything.

How is your bonding with Ram(Ashish Sharma) off screen?

Ashish is a professional guy, who is friendly and has been really sweet to me. We work out together too.

How is it living in Hyderabad? What is your hometown?

To be frank, it’s only shooting on Ramoji, nothing else. My hometown is Bangalore and I miss it.

Any interesting fan experiences?

A crazy kid fan from the US called up to listen to Raavan’s laugh and she was fond of me. A wonderful fan has also erected a huge Raavan’s hoarding in front of my house and that was a surprise.

How is it working with Nikhil Sinha and Sohana Sinha?

Nikhil Sinha is a passionate director and producer. He made me very comfortable as this was my first Hindi TV show. I learnt a lot from him and I am grateful to him for giving me this opportunity. Sohana Sinha has been a wonderful person and has taken care of the Raavan’s look and character very well. I am lucky to have such professional people as my producers.

What was the best scene that you did so far?

The best one was the initial scene when I enter the Swayamvar and I had 4 pages of lengthy dialogues. I had worked for 80 hours non-stop.

Aren’t we all loving this Raavan on Siya ke Ram?