Adil Ibrahim finds his feet

It’s a huge challenge to step into the shoes of a predecessor who was a household name among telly-viewers. Adil Ibrahim had his work cut out for him as he stepped in as the anchor of the reality show D4Dance in place of the immensely popular host Govind Padmasoorya aka GP. Though Adil was initially on a shaky ground, he is proving that he has the wit, charisma and gumption to carry off his anchor duties and his detractors are now eating humble pie. His fan base has swelled and though he gets criticisms, he takes it in his stride.

Adil remarks on the criticisms and his increased confidence, “I am a lot more at ease now. I still don’t know how it is from the audience's perspective. But from the comments I get, I feel that they have appreciated my growth and have accepted me the way I am. Moreover, I value constructive criticism because I can look into my mistakes and correct them and that has definitely helped me grow as an anchor.”

Most of the initial comments compared him with GP but Adil is not worried, “These comparisons do not daunt me. Luckily, 99% of the people have stopped it. Also I feel it’s unfair to compare a household name familiar for three years, to me who is just two months old. GP is a brilliant and experienced anchor and a few viewers still miss him and that is totally understandable. But the way that is communicated is sometimes painful!”

Musing, he continues, “My logic is simple. All my life I have to run a race with myself. If I want to outdo somebody, it’s up to me to do it. I like it when my viewers sometimes say you are better than how you used to be in the beginning. That’s when you feel that your hard work is being appreciated.” Adil feels that the mini screen is a very powerful medium with the power to reach and communicate with viewers in their living room. The marquee has beckoned with a lead role. He informs, “I am really excited to be a part of Kappiri Thuruth which is all about the music and culture of Fort Kochi. I feel elated to be cast in the challenging role of the protagonist because it is a very intense film for a new player like me.”