"Juhi and I are just good friends"

Hussain Kuwajerwala, aka Sumeet of Star Plus' Kumkum has come a long way. For the second time around Hussain's been voted as the best pati (husband) at the Star Parivaar Awards, beating none other than Karan of Kyunki... and Kkavya of Kkavyanjali. Not just this, Hussain has also proved his mettle as an anchor with Khul Ja Sim Sim. Prashant Golecha chats up with Hussain on his career as an actor and anchor.

Hussain: on top of the world!

You have won the best Pati award for the second time. How does it feel?
I feel nice. It's really great, but the credit for it goes to the writer of the show.

Don't you miss working for a prime time show as Kumkum is in the afternoon slot?
The TRP's of the show are almost on par with any other prime time show. Though, it is true that prime time show has an added advantage but I am happy with the ongoing success of Kumkum.

Don't you feel only women watch Kumkum as it is they who are present in the home in the afternoon?
People who want to see the show watch the repeat telecast in the night. Even if men don't see the show they receive the feedback from their wives who watch the show.

If the show takes a leap, will you agree to play an older role?
I would not want that day to come for the show. I have doubts about continuing if it happens. On second thoughts I will decide when the situation comes.

How did rumours of a link up with Juhi Parmar start?
Juhi and I are good friends cum co-stars. Just because we don't fight and also because we are single and have a good on-screen chemistry, people love to talk. It doesn't bother us at all as we just laugh it off and forget it. We are comfortable with each other.

We hear you are seeing a girl from many years…is it true?
All I want to say is keep guessing.

Hussain receiving the award from his on screen wife

What should your ideal woman be like?
She should be beautiful in my eyes, compatible and should be my best friend.

What is your idea of romance?
It is better felt and experienced than said.

What difference you find between acting and anchoring?
Acting and anchoring can't be compared. Both are challenging. As an anchor one needs to be more alert and energetic. In acting, one learns a lot about relationships as there are ups and down in the character's life and story. Moreover, in case of a program like Khul Ja Sim Sim, the experience of seeing smiles on the faces of people who win is amazing.

Does anchoring pay well?
Anchoring is definitely quick money. Here you spend less time and earn more money.

You always look like a chocolate boy and don't look mature. Comment
I am playing a character my age. I can't bring too much variation in my looks.

How did acting happen?
I was always interested in extra-curricular activities in college. I participated in inter college plays and that motivated me. I got my portfolio done and soon I got modeling assignments for products like close up, Cadbury and Rexona. Then Aashirwaad on Zee produced by Manish Goswami happened. Then there was no looking back.

What was the real reason of leaving Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi?
I haven't left Kyunki.... My character, Chirag, has not been replaced. After the leap I did not have the major track. Also, I was busy with Kumkum and other stuff. According to me I am still a part of Kyunki….

Is films on your agenda?
Every TV actor wants to do films. I haven't got any offers worth enough to sign.

What are your plans now?
I don't have a fixed mindset. I take things as they happen. I want to do better work. But, ya I would love to do comedy.