The switch from direction to acting and then back to direction came easy. But will turning quizmaster be equally easy for Rajat Kapoor?

Nat Geo Genius — a quiz show which will test a participant’s knowledge of different countries and their cultures as viewers are taken on a virtual expedition of the world — is Rajat’s latest calling.

t2 quizzes the man who is asking a lot of questions these days…

You have been juggling acting and direction for a while now. But being a quizmaster seems a totally different ballgame…

It definitely is. Although I have been anchoring a lifestyle show for NDTV Good Times for sometime now, turning quizmaster for Nat Geo Genius is something that it is completely new for me. But when I was offered the show, I did not hesitate even for a moment. In fact, I simply jumped at it.

But why a show like Nat Geo Genius?

For starters, it is the Indian version of an internationally renowned, highly acclaimed format. Secondly, it is an intellectually stimulating show, something that I have always wanted to be associated with.

You have shot for a couple of episodes. How has the experience of hosting the show been so far?

It has been fantastic to say the least. The participants are largely young people working in eminent corporate houses of the country and it is great to be in the company of such intelligent people. I have been learning a lot on the show. In retrospect, I am glad I decided to host the show.

How do you manage to divide your time with acting, direction and now anchoring?

It is very difficult. I have been trying to stretch my days (smiles). It does get taxing after a while. However, films or anchoring shows on television do not take as much of my time as giving interviews does (laughs).

Are you looking at venturing into television big time in the near future?

Only if it is non-fiction. I have no time for saas bahu serials.

What is happening on the film front?

My next directorial venture Mithya is slated for a February 8 release. The film is about an actor who gets mixed up with the underworld. Naseeruddin Shah, Neha Dhupia and Ranvir Shorey are the principal actors. I am very excited about the film.

After the good response to Anuranan, are you looking at acting in more Bengali films in future?

I am more than willing. But someone has to approach me first. But I am so happy that Anuranan has also just released in Hindi. It’s a great feeling when people appreciate your work