Hailing from Jammu & Kashmir, Arslan Goni shifted base to Mumbai to study law. Little did he know that the city of dreams would play a key role in introducing him to the vast world of films and showbiz. Arslan, who featured with Richa Chadha and Kalki Koechlin in 2017’s Jia Aur Jia, is all set to impress all with his eccentric character Lala in Ekta Kapoor’s web show, Main Hero Boll Raha Hu. While the release date of the show is yet to be announced, Arslan has become social media’s favourite with his super hot pictures. But, trust us, he is more than just a handsome face.

Talking to PeepingMoon, Arslan recalled his journey from boarding school to law, drama and then acting in big-budget projects. Let us tell you, he is the elder cousin of Bigg Boss 14 participant Aly Goni. Arslan also spoke about working with producer Ekta, actors Parth Samthaan and Patralekhaa in Main Hero Boll Raha Hu.

Excerpts from the interview:  

How has your journey till now been?

I’ve always been fascinated with showbiz. I studied at a boarding school and came to Mumbai to study law. Since I was always interested in acting and drama, I somewhere knew in my heart that I wanted to get into the industry. After completing law, I did acting courses and worked as an assistant director before getting my first break in Jia Aur Jia. I can say that my journey has been fantastic till now. 

You play a gangster in Ekta Kapoor's Main Hero Boll Raha Hu...

My role in Main Hero Boll Raha Hu is based on the ‘90s underworld. I’m playing an eccentric and loud don. He is a spoilt person. He isn’t a very calm person. It is one of the fun characters of the show. 

How did you prepare for your role?

I'm not from Mumbai so my friends helped me with the language required to play the role of a gangster. I also went to the central side of the city to see how people behave and learn their mannerisms. Moreover, my director, Siddhartha Luther, gave me creative freedom. We did workshops and readings together before finalising how the character is going to be. We planned to make him over-the-top and loud. 

Rumour has it that Patralekhaa is the leading lady in Main Hero Boll Raha Hu..  

Yes, Patralekhaa is making her digital debut with Main Hero Boll Raha Hu. I have very few scenes with her. She is a wonderful actress.

You are making your digital debut with Ekta Kapoor’s show. Do you feel any pressure?

No, not at all. It is lovely working with Ekta and the team. It was a great experience.

How is Parth Samthaan as a co-star?

It was great working with him. He is one of those open-minded actors who is ready for suggestions. I am someone who likes to improvise on the set and Parth is always ready for it. 

Are you planning to explore TV? 

When we were getting into acting, the world was very different. Today, I feel the content is the king. You have the biggest films releasing on OTT. Everything has changed now. It is all about content and doing great work. Platforms don't really matter now. Everyone is accepting actors like Saif Ali Khan on digital platforms. TV actors are doing films, web shows, etc. It's become a big large family now.

Your brother Aly Goni is the Bigg Boss 14 house... 

Aly Goni is doing wonderfully well. He is being accepted and loved by everyone and I’m super proud of that. He has handled himself really well inside the house. I don’t know exactly what goes on inside the house but what I can see as an audience, he is doing superb. The entire country is loving him so much.

Do you give Jasmin Bhasin and Aly Goni’s relationship a seal of approval?

I don’t really know what’s going on. I’m new to this as everybody else. I know that they are very good friends. I’m yet to meet Aly and talk to him about this. 

Do you ever see yourself participating in reality shows?

For now, I don’t think so.

Aly Goni is a renowned TV actor, do you think it is too much pressure for you to shine under that light? 

Not at all. Aly is my first cousin. Since we all are one family, he is my younger brother. I had never thought of any pressure. He is doing his individual work, so am I. He was always the smart kid who knew what he wanted. I am very proud of that.