Aarya garnered a lot of love from OTT aficionados soon after its release and the International Emmy Awards nomination in the Best Drama Series category comes as an icing on the cake for creator-director Ram Madhvani. “The timing is great. Both the universe and Miss Universe is by our side,” says Madhvani, referring to the show’s protagonist, former Miss Universe Sushmita Sen.

Calling the Emmy nod an amazing feat, Madhvani adds, “Somewhere, it holds you, motivates you and validates the work you do. But, it also puts pressure on you. The team is very excited and this is huge for all of us.”

This international recognition is a dream-come-true of sorts for Madhvani. “I was in Los Angeles a few years ago, and my brother-in-law took a picture of me outside the Emmys’ venue, where there’s a big statue of the award. I told him that there’s no way I can ever dream to get an Emmy. And after the nominations’ announcement, I messaged him. Obviously something was sent out in the universe back then,” he recalls.

And now, whether they win or not, the filmmaker isn’t really thinking about the end result. “At least we got nominated, that’s huge. I haven’t thought about a win. If it happens, that would be great for everyone in our team. But it’s big already. Right now, all I’m focussing on is season two and that’s keeping us busy. Hopefully, we can deliver the promise and make it as good as season one,” he ends.

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Though he’s been around for over a decade, Aarya proved to be Ankur Bhatia’s breakthrough as an actor. Bhatia is elated that the series has bagged a nomination for Best Drama Series at the International Emmys, and feels life has come a full circle now.

“I feel fortunate to have got the opportunity to work alongside Sushmita Sen, and other brilliant actors in the series. It has been a life-changing experience to be directed by Ram Madhvani, Sandeep Modi and Vinod Rawat,” says the actor.

Bhatia, who essayed the role of Sangram, Sen’s on-screen brother, adds, “I’m thrilled and honoured that Aarya got nominated. It’s incredible. I’m so happy it resonated with the audience, as well as the industry, and is getting international recognition.”

With the second season already in the making, this nomination seems like the perfect timing for the actor. “Yes, it is! Everything is falling into place perfectly. I can’t thank the universe enough that my hard work got appreciated and recognised. It motivates me to do bigger and better things. I can’t hold my excitement for season two,” he exclaims.

And Bhatia surely is hoping for a win. “[I am] hoping and praying [for the win]. But, honestly, being nominated is as good as winning, so I’m really happy.” He continues, “To me personally, if I win an award, it matters, and if I don’t, it doesn’t matter. I think every actor has a different approach towards it. Any kind of recognition and appreciation is beautiful.”