YRKKH actor Vinay Jain says, “I like work that gets me out of my comfort-zone and makes me push the limits of my ability”!

Vinay Jain plays the role of Harsh Vardhan Birla in Rajan Shahi’s Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai (YRKKH). The actor has a fantastic body of work and has been a part of a number of popular TV shows — Ishq Subhan Allah, Ek Shringaar-Swabhiman, Parvarish 2 — and films — Badhaai Ho Badhaai, 13B, Rough Book, Dekh Tamasha Dekh, Cheeni Kum.

Speaking of his journey, he says, “Having worked in varied mediums like theatre, television and film for over two decades, my greatest learning has been that in order to survive in this unpredictable profession one has to develop great reserves of patience, resilience, perseverance and also adaptability.”

Interestingly, the actor maintains a low-profile and lets his work do the talking. “Honestly, I am not really accomplished at the art of being high-profile, but I’m working on it !” he quips sportingly.

About the kind of work he enjoys doing, Vinay adds, “I like work that gets me out of my comfort-zone and makes me push the limits of my ability. The characters I lean towards are those that are real, intense and passionate, not stilted and contrived.”

Enjoying his ongoing stint with YRKKH, the actor shares that the response around the show and his character has been overwhelming. “I am deeply humbled by and grateful for the wholehearted response that I have received from all quarters. I will continue to give my best and engage the audience,” he says.

He also talks about his experience of working with Rajan Shahi and his production house, Director’s Kut Production. “I have had a long and hallowed association with Rajan Shahi. I played the lead in his very first directorial venture and have subsequently worked in a number of his productions. Rajan Shahi and DKP are right on top of their game and it is a privilege to work with them.”

So what’s the secret of a good performance? “Undoubtedly, the script, direction, editing and other factors contribute greatly but as far as the actor is concerned, what ultimately shines through is the hard work, truth, courage and vulnerability of the performer” says the actor, who has been quite active on social media of late and has been making reels frequently.

Ask him about it and he laughs before adding, “Despite being a late and somewhat reluctant entrant onto social media, I have been very warmly embraced by my fans. Apart from their constant compliments and appreciation, what I can sense is that they want a lot more interaction with me. I will do everything I can to reciprocate their love and attention.”

Keerti Kadam.