MUMBAI: Varun Badola might be the latest entrant in the cast of Undekhi, but he has been associated with the series as a dialogue writer since its origin in 2020. The transition from behind the scenes to the screen was an easy decision for the actor.

(Also read: Varun Badola returns to films)

“I knew the show’s structure. Plus, Harsh [Chhaya, lead actor] and I have been friends for long. Deb [Dibyendu Bhattacharya] and I have known each other. So, I knew it’d be a comfortable zone. The character had a certain intrigue to it,” he smiles.

As a renowned actor in television and OTT content, Badola places the most importance on the quality of the storyline and characters while selecting a story. However, he notes that choosing his projects is a luxury he can now afford. There have been times in the past when he found it difficult to put food on the table, which compelled him to take on work he didn't believe in.

“There comes a time when you are worried how the next meal will come to the table. Then you pick up [projects] that you probably dislike. I’ve done that three to four times. I did one show that I disliked personally, it’s the biggest hit of my life. I earned humongous popularity from it. I did it because I had no work; it was another opportunity to earn more money. I got everything from it except peace of mind,” he recounts, referring to a popular drama.

If there's one thing his three-decade career has taught him, it's that artist must choose between their financial stability and mental well-being. “You might [rarely] get both, but that’s like wishing upon a shooting star.” So, what does he have today? “I have returned from the shoot of a show, and there is a lot of peace of mind.”

(Also read: "I'm more of a bowling-all-rounder" Varun Badola)

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Credit- Mid- Day