I don’t tend to react to it anymore. This is something most newcomers have to go through. Shahid was compared to Shahrukh Khan, Shahrukh to Amitabhji, who had been compared to Dilip Kumar. – Harman Baweja

He is the son of Producer - Director Harry Baweja, his debut film ‘Love Story 2050’ has generated enough hype and bowed the seeds of curiosity in the industry and the ‘aam junta’ as well.

Recently during the film promotional campaign, people and media were made to wait for quite some time before Harman arrived with his girl-friend and co-star Priyanka Chopra.

Even before the release of his debut vehicle, he has already bagged lucrative offers and is most likely to work with the likes of Ashutosh Gowariker.

But still the 27 year old debutant is humble and maintains that stardom is still far…
Taking time out from his hectic film promotion time-table, Harman shares it all with Vishal - his first time acting experience, his ideology of love, comparison with Hrithik & why is he optimistic about himself and his debut film ‘Love Story 2050’.

V: Are u anxious, nervous or feeling the jitters before the release of your debut film? If yes then why?
H: Well yes, it’s natural to feel nervous before your debut film. It’s pretty much like a Standard X student waiting for his board results. I am excited, anxious, nervous, I feel jittery. I am currently a combination of every emotion that a human is capable of feeling. I hope everything goes well.

V: What is the USP of the film?
H: This is the first futuristic movie with special effects in India. Over-all the movie is a USP in itself.

V: Will you love anyone till 2050?
H: I believe love is what governs our entire existence, so I would continue to love till 2050 and even beyond, as long as I shall live.

V: What’s your definition of love?
H: I believe love is the most abused word and we tend to use it very casually. In fact everyday of my life, I try to understand what it means in totality. I believe love is ever evolving. Everyday I feel stronger emotions towards my parents, relatives and friends.

V: How should a guy propose to his girlfriend?
H: I don’t believe in any particular way of proposing. It completely depends on the two people involved and their relationship.

V: How did you proposed to your first girlfriend?
H: In College, I was an introvert by nature. So I actually asked my friend to convey my feelings towards this girl. He went ahead and did it for me, and as luck would have it, the girl agreed. So I guess that works. (Laughs)

(Now we do some serious talking)

V: Share your experience on the first day of your shoot. What was going when you first faced the camera?
H: I was very nervous on the first day. I was literally “robotic”. I just rushed through my lines. I was very conscious of having dad around, even in my peripheral vision. I requested him to stay away from the set and just watch me from the video monitor.

On the third day, he came up to me and asked if he could come on his own set. We all laughed, and then onwards we shared a great rapport.

V: So did the on screen chemistry between you and Priyanka had some scrutiny considering your dad being around?
H: At the end of the day we are all actors, just doing our job. I was definitely conscious of having dad around, and the romantic scenes were quite a task. Though after the initial days, things eased out and I finally went on to do what an actor is supposed to do.

V: Now that the film is complete what is the difference you feel as an actor when compared to your first day in front of the camera & today?  
H: I feel I have grown as an actor. I could feel myself growing with every shot, so much so that my later work was far superior to my earlier work in the movie. A lot of people involved in the movie also share this view. I am just happy I was improving and hope the learning process never stops.

V: So as of today, what do you believe will make you stand out in the current breed of newcomers?
H: I am not looking to stand out, but I am definitely hoping that my hard work pays off and gets noticed by people and that they appreciate it.

V: How beneficial has the home production being in your debut, there may be a possibility that some ‘galti’ may have been sidelined. How will you cope with thorough professionals like Ashutosh Gowarikar, in your future projects?
H: It would be unfair to say a home production is not professional. I think being a home production ensured I was pushed further than I would have been otherwise. You just need to be with my dad for a day to realize how professional he is.

On that front I am really looking forward to working with Ashutosh Gowaikar.

V: If the film becomes a hit, what will be your price for a film?
H: I think price is a relative term, I truly wish the first part of your question of the film becoming a hit comes true. Nonetheless, whenever I will sign a film, it will always be about the film-maker and the script and never about money.

V: How does it feel when someone compares you with Hrithik Roshan. Do you take it as a compliment or otherwise?
H: I don’t tend to react to it anymore. This is something most newcomers have to go through. Shahid was compared to Shahrukh Khan, Shahrukh to Amitabhji, who had been compared to Dilip Kumar.
It’s only a matter of time before people begin to appreciate you for who you are, if you can make a distinct impression through your movies.

V: Final words
H: Love Story 2050 is a whole-some entertainer. It’s the first movie of its kind, with a mix of romance, the future and amazing special effects. I just hope people love the movie and all the characters.

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