‘Aamir Khan will stand by you like a rock,’ says Nikhat Khan

What prompted you to take up a daily soap?

I believe the small screen has a vast audience. So, I am looking forward to reaching out to a large audience.

Why did you choose Banni Chow Home Delivery for your TV debut?

I auditioned for the role and got selected for Sulekha’s character. It was for Star Plus and also Shashi Sumeet Production House. So, I decided to take it up. Moreover, my character is also positive.

The show is about food. What’s your favourite cuisine?

I am a foodie and I love to explore food from different regions. When it comes to Jaipur cuisine, my favourite vegetarian dish is dal baati churma, while one of my favourite non-vegetarian dishes is Rajasthani lal maas.

How has been your shooting experience so far?

It has indeed been a great experience shooting with the cast and crew. Working with young actors like Ulka Gupta and Pravisht Mishra is fantastic.

You have worked in various mediums. How different is TV vis-à-vis films and OTT?

Unlike TV shows, films and OTT have a lot of time in hand as there is no pressure to shoot within a particular time frame and air it. But the good part about TV is that we get to watch our work very soon. Also, I don’t get a lot of screen time in movies because of my age. As a result, work is limited.

How has been the transition from production to acting?

As a producer, I was behind Lagaan, Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke and Tum Mere Ho. Now, I have forayed into small screen. With experience, the transition from producing films to acting has been smooth.

Did you always want to be an actor?

Despite the fact that I have a film background, I have been doing other things for many years and have avoided it. I was shy and did not have the confidence which was needed to appear in front of the camera. But I decided to give it a shot and secretly enrolled in acting classes. When I felt confident enough, I disclosed it to my family.

What was your brother Aamir Khan’s reaction?

He was surprised that his older sister, who until now had not shown any inclination towards facing the camera, had suddenly announced her willingness to act. He took a little while to accept that I wanted to step into a new career and that too one that required a lot of grit and skill to break into.

How did Aamir influence you as an actor?

He suggested me to start with modelling and do ads etc. so that I get a feel of things. Aamir is very unassuming so he never gave me any gyan really.

Any fond childhood memory of Aamir Khan that you would like to share?

There are so many memories. He is a brother not only to be proud of, but one who will stand by you like a rock and see you through your tough times. I am indeed very blessed to have a brother like him.