Television actor Pravisht Mishra, currently seen in Bareilly Ke Bacchan, was in Lucknow recently to promote the show. In an exclusive conversation with us, the actor reflected on his journey in the television industry, the changing entertainment landscape, his acting aspirations and more.Having spent over a decade in the industry, Mishra says his journey has been gradual and grounded. “It’s been around 10–12 years, actually more than that. I started very young, but I continued my studies alongside acting. It wasn’t like I was only acting. I’d do a project, then focus on studies, and later return when another opportunity came,” he says.Looking back at how he has evolved as an actor, Mishra believes learning never stops. “I’ve learnt a lot of technical aspects that I didn’t know initially. Many actors first become assistant directors to understand filmmaking. I became an actor directly, but on the sets where I had fewer scenes, especially when I played supporting roles, I would spend time assisting directors. I’m still learning.”
Pravisht Mishra in a still from Bareilly Ke Bacchan
On the oft-debated criticism that television has become repetitive, Mishra offers a balanced perspective. “Very honestly, any form of entertainment will only be made if people are watching it. It will only be served if it’s being consumed,” he says, adding that audiences often underestimate the emotional value family dramas hold for viewers.“My aunt watches almost every television show. For someone like her, these stories provide emotional connection and relatability. If she sees a woman like herself becoming empowered, she feels happy.” According to him, niche storytelling has not disappeared but merely shifted platforms. “The niche content hasn’t disappeared, it has shifted to OTT. Earlier, shows like Sanjeevani worked on television. Today, those kinds of stories are largely being made for streaming platforms. Daily soaps also function differently. They’re produced every single day. Limited series have more time for writing and execution.”While television continues to be his primary medium, Mishra is equally keen on exploring OTT. “Absolutely. I want to do a lot more. I’m a huge believer of destiny. I believe that what is destined to happen with me will happen. I always say that I’ll ride the horse; God will decide the direction. I’ll keep riding the horse.”Asked what keeps him going in an unpredictable profession, Mishra’s answer is simple, faith. “I continually audition and I continually will. We never know what might happen. I believe if something is meant for me, it will come to me.”On the personal front, the actor laughs before clarifying, “No, nothing yet. I’ve dated before, but currently I’m not in a relationship.”Does he see himself in an arranged marriage, we wonder? “I don’t think I’ll have an arranged marriage. But again, it’s a game of destiny. Wherever it’s destined, it will happen.”Marriage, however, is certainly on his mind. “I’ll turn 28 this year. I would like to marry before 35. I want to have children while I’m still young enough to enjoy life with them.” He admits his outlook has changed with time. “Earlier, I used to think, ‘Why take on family responsibilities?’ But over time I realised that having a family gives you something meaningful to look forward to. It’s another motivation in life. Not everyone needs it, but I know I would want a family.“
