In search of an identity-Abhishek Awasthi

Abhishek Awasthi minus Rakhi Sawant is an uncommon sight but over the next couple of months this will be a ‘reality’ as the Uttar Pradesh-born lad competes on Zee TV’s first danced based show ‘Ek Se Badhkar Ek.’ Naturally, the first question that was put to him was whether he’s trying to create an identity for himself. Abhishek replies unflinchingly, “There’s no two ways about it. For long, my critics have stated hat I’ve always been living in the shadow of Rakhi. I rose to fame with Zee Cinestars Ki Khoj. Ek Se.. is a second innings for me. This is my opportunity to re-establish myself.” A first of its kind, Ek Se Badhkar Ek is a reality show wherein a pair of dancer and singer performs their respective task. Points will be awarded taking into account both the performances. “The good thing about this format is that if a singer falters then the dancer makes up for that and vice-versa,” quips the ace dancer. The flip side of this format is also that one brilliant performance may not be enough to cover up for a bad one. “Yes, I agree but we could be saved by public voting.” says Abhishek. Voting? Well, after the bitter experience in Nach Baliye 3, one would have thought that voting would be last thought on his mind. So what has brought about this change of heart? And what’s the possibility that he wouldn’t suffer the same fate here? “No comments” was the pat reply. Ask him about his current equation with Rakhi Sawant and he chides, “That’s too personal, I wouldn’t like to comment on it.” Steering towards his future ventures Abhishek says, “I’ve got a few big banner films under my belt. Asfor television, I’d only take up something which appeals to me. I would love to do something like Mahabharat.’ Counter him by asking whether he’s been offered a role in Mahabharat, Abhishek switches to diplomatic mode again, “You need to wait and watch.”