Shashank Vyas seems to have finally freed himself from his Balika Vadhu image, thanks to the popularity of his current character, Ravish, in Jana Na Dil Se Door. And the actor is clearly enjoying his new identity.

“It really takes a lot to break an image. I was only known as Jagya, and now people recognise me as Ravish. I’m so glad people have accepted me wholeheartedly in this role and my new look. The moustache has done the trick, I guess. Ravish is a strong character, and it is even more popular than Jagya,” informs Shashank.

While the actor insists he’s in a happy space, there are whispers that all’s not well between him and the makers of his new show. Shashank, however, shrugs it off with a diplomatic response.

“From Balika Vadhu, I jumped into this ocean. I started comparing both the shows, which was not right on my part. Balika was a different genre. It had a social message, while this show is a complete masala drama. It took me time to accept this,” he says.

“I understand how television works, so I don’t feel let down. At the 5.30 pm slot, the show is drawing in good ratings. My job is to convince the audience to accept me, and they have. I don’t need to prove myself. I’m a decent actor; not good or bad.”

With the focus now completely on the lead couple of the show, Vikram Singh Chauhan and Shivani Surve, isn’t the actor feeling left out in the cold? “I haven’t gone into the romantic zone so far. A couple’s chemistry makes the show, so obviously the focus is on them and not me. Jisko chamakna hai who chamak ke rahega (One who is destined to shine, will, will shine) My character doesn’t need a girl, and that’s the feedback I’m getting from people. This character is the best I could do as an actor. I don’t see myself playing a snake or a rakshas, even though shows like these are getting earth-shattering ratings. I’m very content with my role and it has really helped me successfully try a different genre,” he says.

Recently, there were rumours that Shashank had been throwing his weight around on the sets and giving trouble to the production house. He, however, dismisses the allegations with a calm demeanour.

“I’m not the type of actor who will throw his weight around or throw tantrums. I was the only actor who danced with all the unit members at a party organised by our production house for the cast and crew. I look at things logically. I have to shoot five scenes a day. If I start thinking about all this, then it’ll affect the telecast. So I don’t bother and go about my work,” he signs off.