Actor Babushaan in a scene from his film. Telegraph picture

Bhubaneswar, Oct. 1: Babushaan, the youngest kid on the block in the Oriya film industry, has carved a niche for himself on and off screen.

Babushaan, who is the son of yesteryear stars Uttam and Aparajita Mohanty, believes that his acting prowess should speak for him more than anything else.

The actor prefers to prove himself with his talent and doesn’t want to flash the tag of being a star kid.

“People are well aware that I am a star kid. So, I put in conscious effort to shed off the starry image. I would rather wish to make a place in the audience’s heart through my individuality,” he says.

Initially, the 20-year-old had no dreams of following his parents’ footsteps.

“Although, I was always sure I would be involved with academics, my ambition used to change from time to time. Sometimes I wanted to be an army officer and sometimes a doctor,” says the actor.

“But it was by sheer chance that I accepted the offer for the film Romeo— the lover boy,” he says.

However, Babushaan feels he was lucky to be launched by Brajraj movies, one of the biggest banners in the Oriya film industry.

“I have grown up seeing film stars and directors all the time. They are like my relatives. So, when I was asked to do this film I thought of giving it a try.”

“But now I realise it is a huge opportunity for any debutant to act under the direction and production of Sanjay Nayak,” says Babushaan who stepped into films at the age of 18.

Babushaan’s debut film had created waves for its bold scenes. But soon, the actor went on to do versatile roles in movies like To aakhire mu and Sanju Aau Sanjana.

A trained Hindustani vocalist, he even sang a couple of songs in the films.

“I am passionate about singing too but I feel I need to do better as an actor. I’m still learning. But I know that people have high expectations from me,” he says.

Babushaan next film is Prema Adhei Akhsara, which is in the post-production stages.

“This film is being directed by Sudhakar Basant and my character has various shades in the film. The subject is suitable for all viewers,” says Babushaan who plays a software professional in the romantic film.

“We are planning for a Dussherra release. I am hoping it does well. I’ve kept my fingers crossed,” he says.

The actor wishes to portray negative as well as comic roles in future.

“I wish to be versatile like my parents,” says Babushaan who has grabbed a number of films offers.

As a hobby, this BBA student loves watching old Oriya films.

He loves Bhakta Salabega and Dandabalunga starring his father and he admires his mothers’ acting in Sasti and Sata Michha.