Among all those youngsters who have entered Marathi TV serials in the recent past, Astad kale has successfully managed to survive the competition. Originally from Pune, he began his acting career with Marathi stage play ‘Lagna Kallol’, which was directed by Paresh Mokashi. Having received a break at the right time, he went on to perform in many experimental and commercial plays.Not many people are aware of his talent in Hindustani Classical Music, on the basis of which he was offered some of the roles in Marathi classical plays. Astad has rendered lot of classical songs in these classical plays. The best part was when he sang Sant Tukaram’s abhang in ‘Jyacha Tyacha Vithoba’.Watching his performance in various stage plays, he was offered suitable roles by Shrirang Godbole in TV serials. ‘Vadalvaat’, ‘Asambhav’ and ‘Agnihotra’ are some of the serials through which Astad made his presence felt through the challenging roles he performed. He has also played an Anchor’s role on Saam TV, displaying his skills as a programme host. We are now watching him as Sohan in popular Marathi TV serial ‘Pudhacha Paul‘ .Astad has also performed in Marathi films in the recent past. He was last seen in Pushkar Jog’s ‘Mission Possible‘ in an important role. But, now he plays the lead role opposite Sai Lokur in the latest Marathi film ‘Platform‘. He has performed the role of Aditya with ease. Marathi Movie World had a chit chat with Astad, during the Premiere of ‘Platform’ and found him to be a promising actor.

Q: Are you based in Pune?
A: I lived in Pune since my childhood. But, after doing my graduation from Fergusson College, Pune, I shifted to Mumbai. For the past 7 years, I am living here.Q: Is ‘Platform’ your first film as a hero ?
A: Yes, it is my first film in the lead role, though I have performed in many Marathi films, in important roles.Q: What’s the role you are playing in this film?
A: I am playing Aditya, who is a protagonist. He is a close friend of Shivani and is always supportive to her during their college days till their first job assignment. He leaves for US to pursue his career, but is in constant touch with his girlfriend for 11 years, since she is occupied with some social responsibility here in India.Q: You have been a classical singer for a long time. How come we missed you in celebrities show on SaReGaMaPa?
A: Yes, I am good at classical singing. If you feel that I missed that programme, you will see me soon, in such programmes in future.

Q: How do you look at success in this acting field ?
A: Success is achieved through hard work besides talent. One should be passionate about acting. If you do well in one performance, you will be remembered by others.