Veer Pahariya says trolling helped him get more work
What's the story
Veer Pahariya, the 30-year-old actor who recently made his Bollywood debut with Sky Force, has taken online trolling in the right spirit.
His dance moves in the film's song Rang went viral and were slammed for the limping-like hook step.
In an interview with Hauterrfly, Pahariya said this trolling has actually increased his social media presence and opened new doors for him.
Trolling benefits
Pahariya's positive take on trolling and increased recognition
Pahariya expressed his excitement about being trolled, saying, "I love it; I live for it. My whole life I've looked up to actors who get trolled and who have lookalikes, and they become a meme."
"I have become a meme; can you imagine? I'm immortalized with this dance. Who knew me 20 days ago? Now if I do langdi here, they will recognize me."
Career boost
'I did that 'langdi' step with the bride'
The actor also revealed that the trolling has resulted in more invites for gigs.
"Since my song came out and since it went viral and got trolled, my engagement has increased so much that so many doors and avenues have opened up for me after that."
"I've already performed at two weddings. I did that langdi step with the bride."
Work humor
Pahariya's humorous take on increased work opportunities
Pahariya humorously recalled an incident from one of the weddings he performed at.
"I joked with the groom, 'This is my fifth round. If I do two more, the bride will be mine.'"
"So many work opportunities have opened because people now know who I am. I've got a hit song. I've got weddings, which is every actor's dream - to be able to dance and perform at weddings."
Casting defense
'Sky Force' director defended Pahariya's casting amid criticism
Meanwhile, Sky Force director Sandeep Kewlani defended his decision to cast Pahariya in the film amid criticism.
He told India Today Digital, "We studied Squadron Leader Ajjamada B Devayya's life and even met pilots who were involved in the mission."
"His story remained largely unknown for decades. When he was posthumously awarded the Maha Vir Chakra 23 years after his demise, it was a revelation."
"Similarly, we wanted an actor without baggage—someone whose fate the audience wouldn't be able to predict."