Actor Bobby Deol, who has reinvented himself in the digital space, and quickly adapted to the changing times in cinema, says that his inspiration continues to be his father Dharmendra, who loves facing the camera even at the age of 86.

The veteran actor will be seen sharing screen space with Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt in Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani, which also features Jaya Bachchan and Shabana Azmi. The Karan Johar directorial will see Dharmendra play a pivotal role.

Bobby says, “I am so happy for my dad. He told me that he never thought he would be working at this age and yet, he got cast in such a big film by a renowned banner. Like my dad, I hope to be working when I am his age.”

Talking about his father’s enthusiasm towards his job, Bobby adds, “He is like a child. Dad is so dedicated and has that fire to keep working. He would keep sending us (family members) pictures and videos and share his plans on how he was to portray his character in the film.”

Bobby says, “My father has achieved so much in life, yet he is so dedicated to his craft... and still dying to be out there and perform. This is what inspires me the most about him. I wish to work as an actor till the day I stop breathing.”

Reflecting on his journey in the digital space, the actor who has won many accolades for his performance in MX Player’s Aashram, says, “I always wanted to be known for my work, and I got the recognition through OTT platforms. I wanted to play characters that were different from the typical ones that came with commercial cinema. I love commercial cinema, but the fact that I was getting to do something that was never offered to me before, enticed me. I want to be challenged as an actor every day as I know that it can bring out the best in me. And that’s what the fight is about in this phase of my career.”

The actor also points out that there are opportunities for everyone now. “Cinema could not accommodate everyone, but OTT has opened avenues for fresh, young talent,” he says, adding, “Today, you can’t find a director, actor or a cinematographer. It’s not easy to find them available because everybody can get a job today. This medium is keeping even those who were complaining there’s no work or opportunities for them on their toes.”

Dharmendra and Hema Malini’s daughter, Esha Deol Takhtani, too, has opted for the digital route to make her comeback. She was recently seen in a web show opposite Ajay Devgn. Bobby says, “Esha is a hands-on mother of two (daughters Radhya and Miraya) and a dedicated working professional. Her getting back to acting proves that once an actor, always an actor! It is something that you can never let go of.”