By Shama Bhagat

Abhay Deol is finally following the Deol trend.

The actor who has been known for his unconventional roles will now be seen doing action for the first time in Prakash Jha’s 'Chakravyuh'.
Quiz him about finally taking up action and Abhay says with his dimpled smile,  “This is my first action film and  I have done a lot of stunts, Prakash Jha has literally made me  run."

For the action the actor had to undergo workshops before embarking on the project. "I had done a lot of workshops with him. It’s a big film and there is a lot of action.  I had to take stunt lessons so I that could focus on the character.  Prakash Jha is one director who keeps making changes in the dialogue and character especially after meeting the actor. My Character has also undergone changes along the way."

Abhay says he wasn’t a complete novice when it came to the subject of Naxalites (that is the moot point of the film).  “I had read the story of Soni Suri who is a tribal lady and whose nephew was educated in Delhi (He is probaby playing a role which is influenced by the story of Soni Suri).  I had heard how naxalism is rampant all over India.
Prakash Jha knew that I was had some knowledge about the Naxalites movement so he worked more on the character than on the background.
But after doing this film I came to realise how big the movement is and have a feeling it’s going to become worse unless all the people in the country get together and do something to end it.  I also realized during the shooting of this film that characters like Adil and Rhea actually exist,” says Abhay.

The actor who is known for being choosy about the films he signs says, “The plot got me and I felt that the topic is relevant. Also it’s a prakash Jha film. I have seen his earlier films and liked them immnsely. Usually when I love a script I just take it up. I felt it’s an opportunity. Whenever any director approaches me I pray that the role should be good. But some do etch up good characters for me.  I also had the dates available since my other film 'Rocker Shaadi'
didn’t work out."

Abhay says that he looks out for opportunities to work with talented directors.  "With every film I try to improve myself. I know that there are a lot of things that I don't know and I need to learn so much. I am always looking for opportunities to learn. I absorb and listen as much as I can. Out of all the directors I have worked with, Prakashji is the most sensitive director and that’s why I said that working with him was like being on a picnic.  I worked with the most talented directors be it Zoya, Dibakar, Anurag and they all have their own distinct vision and passion."

What next? we quiz him... "I will be doing a special appearance in Ranjhana," he rattles off.