A rookie actor becoming the cynosure of all eyes even before his first project is beamed. This is a trait that’s normally associated with Bollywood and reserved only for the superstar sons and daughters. This is something unheard of on television. However, someone had to break this deadlock.

21-year-old Asmit Kaushik of Mumbai grabbed headlines when he danced in a towel ala Ranbir Kapoor in Saawariya. His maiden TV show Kaisi Lagi Lagan went on air on 13 October but weeks before news of him dancing like Ranbir Kapoor was out everywhere.

In fact, this happened to be his first shot.

Naturally, the first question that was popped up to him was whether he too danced in the buff ala Ranbir? “I’m sorry but I can’t reveal that,” said Asmit.

Throwing more light on his Saawariya act, he says, “Honestly, I’m used to dancing in a towel. After watching Ranbir, I used to do the same at home but never on camera. Still, I had the confidence that I could pull it off.”

Blind imitation and that too in your first scene? Didn’t he run the risk of being labelled an impressionist? “No, I wouldn’t say that. I studied Ranbir’s video carefully and I made it a point to add something of my own. The most difficult aspect of such dance is expressions. Watch my video and I’m sure you will find the difference. Often what we see is a guy dreaming about his girl cooking for him and in the background a film song being played. Thus this is something new for television too,” replied the actor.

Was there any wardrobe malfunction? And what was his girlfriend’s reaction?

“I’ll answer your second query first. At 21, I’m very much single. As for the malfunction, no there wasn’t one. There were times when the towel did drop but I managed to hold on to it. This dance did wonders for Ranbir. I’m hoping the same for myself,” says Asmit cheekily.

The 21-year-old has quite an interesting story to tell. This Kashmir born-lad shifted to Mumbai 15 years ago. His father wanted him to be a lawyer but destiny had other things for him. And they unfolded in a manner that makes for a great script in itself.

“I took part in a talent hunt that was organised by Tanuja Chandra. The winner was to get a role in her film Hope and a little sugar. I didn’t get that role but as the runner-up, my prize was free coaching at Anupam Kher’s acting school. In hindsight, this turned out to be very profitable for me as I got to learn the nuances of acting. After that I took part in a play which was staged at Prithvi theatre.

There was a lull for a while and then one fine day, I headed for an audition for a TV show. Enroute I got a call from a struggler friend, Lucky, who told me to go for the Cinevistaas’ audition that was taking place nearby. Though a bit reluctant, I changed my plans and headed for the audition. Luckily, I got selected but my friend didn’t. Right from that day, I’ve been telling Lucky how lucky he’s proved for me. I intend to return the favour by landing him a role too,” narrated Asmit.

Meanwhile viewers can watch Asmit in his towel in our video section. Enjoy!