Raj Pandey, the talented man from Lucknow has a range of experience, from the pre-production to the post-production phase of a show. Also, Raj has the wide experience of being associated with fiction as well as non-fiction shows, in both regional and mainstream channels. Now, he works as the Casting Head for a reputed production house.
In a conversation with Tellychakkar.com, Raj talks about his journey in the industry, and his achievements so far.
Take us through your early days in the industry...
Well, I started as a director in Lucknow in the year 2003 wherein I was part of few regional shows. In the year 2013, I moved to Mumbai and joined Rashmi Sharma Productions and started to assist the Casting Director there, Imran Siddiqui. This was a good learning phase for me, as I was part of the casting team for the launch of shows Swaragini, Bhagyalakshmi and Sarojini. Also, I worked on few cameo casting for their ongoing shows, Sasural Simar Ka and Saathiya.
What do you do now?
I am now the Casting Head of SOL and Shoonya Square Productions, and have been involved in the launch of Thapki Pyaar Ki.
How has the industry treated you?
Well, every experience, good or bad comes with a learning. So I never see any bad experience as bad. The industry has been good, and I believe that hard work yields fruits. But for anything and everything to grow and nurture, one needs to give it a bit of time. So I am putting in my best at every level of my work, and believe that I will get good returns in the near future.
Do you think casting directors on TV get their due credit?
As said earlier, it takes time for a drastic change to happen. There was a time when the EPs used to take care of the casting process. Now, the industry has specialized casting directors heading the team. It is true that the casting people like us go through a lot of difficulties. But again, I believe that the industry will reward the casting people well in the coming time.
What is your motto in life?
For me, optimism is the key, and I see positivity even in a low and crunch situation. As the beautiful flower comes with a thorn, there are a lot of ups and downs in everyone’s day to day life. But the one who will sail through all the problems and create a win-win situation will emerge victorious. So I believe in staying confident and optimistic.
When do you get utmost satisfaction – when you launch a new face, or when you bring back an experienced face onscreen?
See, working with new faces is indeed joyous and gives one great satisfaction. In the same way, working with experienced actors provides a different kind of joy. So I welcome both.
What do you think is the future of TV?
TV has grown leaps and bounds. There are a lot of new concepts that are being appreciated. The level of importance that television has got today is immense.
What are your future plans?
See, I have been into direction for many years. Knowledge in casting has only enriched me more. I have a lot of plans, and actually aim at making movies. I am working out on a few things, and will speak about that at the right time.
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