MUMBAI: Paras Tomar is multifaceted. He is a model, actor, former journalist, and a radio show presenter. Some time ago, he starred in Joyeeta Chatterjee’s sensitively written short film titled Baby Steps, which captures the evolution of the relationship between a mother and her son over each other’s sexuality. And now, he will soon be seen in Zee5’s digital venture 377 Abnormal, which charts the journey of five petitioners who fought for the dissolution of Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code, which criminalized consensual intercourse that was ‘against the order of nature’. The series is produced and directed by Faruk Kabir, who recently directed the Applause Entertainment’s Marry Me, Stranger.

We spoke at length to Paras about his character and the web show. Read on to know what he had to say.

The film talks about section 377 IPC, a subject that is is not yet well accepted by everyone. What is your take?

This is a web feature film for Zee 5 called Section 377 Abnormal. The film actually talks about how this movement to decriminalize homosexuality has been a tough journey. In the cities we live in and the circles we move in, sexuality is never frowned upon. At least not openly. But there are so many parts of rural India where the reality might be different. It's ironic though. People used to be in the closet about being gay earlier. Now, I think people are closeted homophobes.

What's the concept like?

This film is based on real events, real stories, and real journeys about an archaic law that probably ruined so many lives before it was overturned.

Tell us something about your character.

My character is a first for me. I had never played a Muslim character before. I play Javed. The details, from the look and the hair to the accessories is so amazing. It was also a first for me because I've done only happy characters up until now. This is the first time I had to do emotional scenes. That too a crying shot in the middle of Chandni Chowk! I had the best time sharing space with Anju Mahendroo and Zeeshan Mohammed.

Any scenes where you felt a bit awkward? How did you deal with them?

The crying scenes for me were tough. I hadn’t done them before. It was new to me. those scenes couldn’t have been rehearsed before. That's where director Faruk Kabir made sure he made me feel so incredibly comfortable even in a crowded bazaar! And the moment Faruk called ‘Cut’, I’d burst out laughing!

How was your chemistry with Zeeshan Ayyub?

I love Zeeshu! Haha. Yes, that's what I now call him! He's fun, a chiller, and a full cuddle monkey when the scenes need it. He loves talking just as much as I do! We'd both be laughing between takes constantly! I fell in love with Anju Mahendroo instantly! I've given her so many kisses during a take. It was just too cute!

What is the response you are expecting? Any parting message?

I'm very excited to see how this film is received! For us to shoot this in part in Mumbai and the rest in Delhi was such an experience. I'd never shot at Hazrat Nizamuddin in Delhi. What a location, so beautiful. I can't wait for people to watch this film!

Way to go, Paras!