Tube Talk: Ekta’s my friend, mentor - Karan Patel

Hyderabad: Karan Patel headlines Yeh Hai Mohabbatein with Divyanka Tripathi, and his sizeable (female) fan following tunes in every night, not only to lap up his hunky good looks, but also his intense acting prowess. In a candid chat, Karan talks about his co-stars and how he handles those intense emotional scenes:

You and Ekta Kapoor have had a pretty long association. What’s it like, working with her? 

Ekta is not just a friend, but also a mentor and guide. It’s her belief in me that helps me perform on screen. I love her and nothing in this world will ever change our equation.

Your chemistry with Divyanka has been appreciated by viewers. What do you feel makes your jodi such a loved one?    
Well I think we both try to keep it as natural as possible. Theirs is not an out-of-this-world romance and people can relate to it. The love is subtle, the way it is in normal homes — no singing songs etc. I think that does the magic! To be appreciated feels nice; it means we’re doing something right.

What about your connection with your onscreen daughter Ruhi?   
Oh she is the most adorable one on set! I can’t help but be protective towards her. She’s naughty, but an angel and everyone’s favourite.

What’s been a memorable thing a fan has done for you?
Recently, a fan had made this huge beautiful card for me with a collage of all of my pictures, starting right from my first show. I was touched.

Which of your co-stars do you get along with best?   
I get along well with all my co-stars. Contrary to the belief that I am reserved, I am actually a fun-loving guy. Divyanka, Anita (Hassana-ndani) — all of us get along superbly.