The last year and a half has been tough in more ways than one, owing to the Covid-19 scare. But, actor Vatsal Sheth is glad that things are once again moving in the right direction.

“We all endured possibly the toughest phase of our lives in these last two years. At a point, I also wondered how long life can go on like this. Thankfully, we are now limping back as an industry,” says the Malang (2020) actor.

The pandemic period also saw an OTT boom, paving the way for new stories, fresh talent. And Sheth admits that as a performer, one has to move ahead with time.

“It’s imperative for actors to learn and unlearn all along their career. You can’t afford to be complacent at any point. Imagine, if I would have taken the complacency route and continued doing light-hearted, fun roles like in Taarzan: The Wonder Car (2004), projects such as Malang and (TV show) Haasil wouldn’t have been there on my CV at all. All these project me as a performer with a wide horizon — one who is geared up to transform and challenge himself to any extent,” reasons Sheth, who is married to actor Ishita Dutta.

As a couple, how beneficial is it being in the same field, professionally? “It does make things easy,” he admits, but is quick to add, “I am a firm believer of keeping my work and personal life separate. We do discuss work, but only when it’s something crucial. Else, I switch off once the shoot is over.”

Going forward, the actor has quite a few projects lined up: “Finally, I am making my Gujarati debut with Hun Mari Wife Ne Ano Husband. It is a light-hearted film shot entirely in London. But, the project I’m thrilled about is Om Raut’s Adipurush. I got to work with a wonderful cast and play a great role. I have transformed myself for this character, be it with my looks or approach to the story.”