Never thought of acting, says wrestler Danish Akhtar

New Delhi, April 24 (IANS) Wrestler-turned-actor Danish Akhtar has made his acting debut with the popular TV show “Siya Ke Ram” where he is seen playing the role of Lord Hanuman. But he says he never thought of becoming an actor.

“I got really happy when I got this offer. I feel every wrestler is a devotee of Lord Hanuman. Even I have been his devotee since childhood,” Danish told IANS.

“I am a big devotee of Lord Hanuman, so I follow him too. I belong to Bihar. I always wanted to be a wrestler since childhood. I would be proud if I'll get to play Hanuman's role every time."

“I want to perform this character in a way that every time when a show on Hanuman is made, the makers would think of casting me first,” Danish added.

Asked about his acting debut, Danish said: “I never thought that I'll become an actor. I was more interested in wresting. I was learning wrestling from The Great Khali sir in his academy in Jalandhar (Punjab). But I never thought of acting once.”

Danish said his venture into the acting field was just a coincidence.

“I was wrestling once in Khali sir's academy. Coincidentally, director and producer of the show Nikhil Sinha was present there. He saw my show and thought that I would be perfect for Hanuman's role.”

Danish added that he is not a big follower of movies.

“I haven't seen a single film at a theatre. While wrestling, we hardly used to get time to watch films. Though I have seen some on TV and mobile. I consider Dara Singh as my idol,” he said.

“Siya Ke Ram”, aired on Star Plus, is a unique representation of Ramayana from Sita's perspective.

Actors Ashish Sharma and Madirakshi are seen playing Ram and Sita in the show.

Asked about his experience so far, Danish said: “Till now everything is going fine. There are a few problems like language and dress, but I'm loving to take up this challenge."

“Ashish is like a big brother to me. We go to the gym together. So, he usually takes health tips from me. And in return, I take acting tips from him as he has played Hanuman's role during his childhood in Ram Leelas. He is a great human being.”