Already a popular name as a model when Namit Khanna entered acting industry, he was judged by many as they felt models can’t be actors. Khanna was undeterred as he trained himself on the job, learning the nuances from veteran actors.
He started his career in 2004 as a model and left the fashion world at the peak of his career after having worked with almost all top designers. His next goal was to make a mark as an actor and he debuted with Vikram Bhatt’s web series Twisted opposite Nia Sharma as Ranbir Raichand in 2017.
Namit grew his fanbase as a daily soap actor in Sony TV’s Yeh Pyar Nahin Toh Kya Hai as Siddhant Sinha and Star Plus’ medical drama Sanjivani as Dr. Sid.
In an exclusive conversation with Top Lead India, the actor opened up on his journey so far, experiences in modelling and acting world and life during lockdown.
Namit Khanna fondly recalls how his co-workers at an advertising firm in Delhi, where he was employed for nearly 2 years, pushed him into the glamour world.
Soon, he found himself as one of the most successful models on the block who graced the ramp for almost every eminent fashion designer. He, however, quit the profession at his peak and started afresh as a beginner in acting world.
“Acting was always on my mind and so was modelling. When I realised that I had played my bit as a successful model and should make way for new boys who want to make a big niche in the fashion world, I decided to bid adieu,” he said.
Khanna says his punctuality and sincerity won appreciation from the fashion biggies. He used to report on time unlike many others and complete work in the given timeframe. “Nobody took me for a ride. Any industry is welcoming provided if you are ready to learn and grow. It’s our job. A callous attitude won’t work,” feels the actor. Namit Khanna is now a guiding light to many. He never refrains himself from guiding fresh talent who rush to him for grooming and fashion tips.
Shooting with veterans
Namit is hell-bent on proving the naysayers wrong who say models can’t be good actors. “A newbie might take time to fit but learnings become more delightful when you have experienced artists around,” he says.
Talking about his experience with actor Manish Chaudhary of Powder fame in YPNTKH and Mohnish Bahl in Sanjivani 2, Namit distinctly remembers how they guided and pushed him to perfection so that he could deliver his best.
Khanna mentions that he was in awe of actor Mohnish Bahl who almost mesmerised him with his priceless acting traits. “Acting is a teamwork. Mohnish Sir would often guide me how and where to take pause. He and I share many interests in common and his wife Arti Bahl ma’am is too a gem of a person. A new entrant could derive enriching and fulfilling experience with unexpected applause and guidance from seniors and co-artists unlike a model role that is just to fit into the clothes,” he says.
On travelling, photography, theatre
Actor who has an unwavering enthusiasm enjoys travelling to foreign locations. He is a passionate photographer who stocks travel snapshots in his camera and shares them on his instagram account.
Namit regrets not joining Delhi’s theatre circuit despite hailing from the capital city. Although the actor had joined a clowning group and did play for underprivileged kids but he certainly feels that the instant feedback from spectators could better any stage performer.
On rising suicide cases in entertainment industry
The actor expresses extreme disappointment over the suicide cases among actors due to covid-19. “Mental health is equally important. Suicide is not advisable. Reach out to someone who needs help. Continue to be supportive. We all belong to same community. We are humans first,” opines the actor.
The Twisted actor is high on spirituality and credits Buddhism chanting and his Soka Gakai members behind his positive attitude, whatever his life state may be. He takes pride that his spiritual awakening guides him to cherish every life around him.
To shoot or not to shoot
Many producers hailed the Maharshtra govt’s decision of resuming shoots. However, actors above 60 age will be excluded for health reasons. “I agree that we love to see our favourites on screen but neglecting health is a sheer stupidity. The decision would work for their betterment only. Health can’t be compensated. The authorities would surely come out with something concrete.”
Life in lockdown
Namit knows how to win the audiences’ love. The actor finds himself highly constructive during lockdown period. He plays guitar, edits travel videos, learns cooking lessons and above all is working on his website launch which would put light on the actor’s work in detail. “The website would give in-depth information about my life. It is an amalgamation of acting, modelling, travel blogs, write-ups, photos etc,” clarifies the actor.
Namit Khanna-a lovely human being,a handsome and talented artist with a bright future ❤👍🙂