Last year would have been huge for Mrunal Jain had Coronavirus not hindered our lives. The actor was awaiting the release of his big ticket film, Sooryavanshi, which couldn’t release in theatres due to the Coronavirus lockdown. “I play the antagonist and was hoping that my work would be noticed by directors and casting directors. There was a lot of buzz around the film and it was expected that it would be received well. Now, to recreate that interest and buzz will take work,” shares the 35-year-old, who gained popularity with TV shows including Uttaran.

He also had another film release in January 2020, Sab Kushal Mangal with Akshaye Khanna, but “it didn’t last for more than a week in theatres”. Disappointed, Jain had pinned his hopes on Soorvanshi as the film was “the talk of the town”. “Working with Akshay Kumar, Ajay Devgn and Ranveer Singh is a big deal. I took on the negative role because when you get a call from Rohit Shetty sir, you know there must be some vision and why he sees me in that role. His conviction in me gave me confidence,” he shares, hopeful that the film will release sooner or later and his work will be noticed eventually.

Jain, who will turn a year older on January 9, says he isn’t into huge celebrations. “On my birthday, I try to work and seek blessings from God. I went to an orphanage last year and will be feeding stray dogs this year. Sharing is caring,” he says.