Rohit Roy: From Sanjivani 2 to Mumbai Saga, Locked In Love and Life Behind the Camera

In an industry that constantly evolves between cinema, television, theatre, and digital platforms, actor-director Rohit Roy has continued to reinvent himself. In an interview with SAURABH TANKHA, Roy reflects on his recent work, the changing dynamics of the entertainment industry, and why he hopes shooting conditions improve at the ground level to ensure a safer work environment for everyone involved.

From Mumbai Saga and Sanjivani 2 to his digital anthology Locked In Love, Rohit Roy has remained active across formats, embracing both acting and filmmaking with equal enthusiasm.

“The last year has been hectic, but creatively fulfilling”

The past year, Rohit Roy says, has been packed with work across multiple projects.

“It has been hectic—shooting for Mumbai Saga with John Abraham and Sanjivani 2 on television, and travelling for my play Ovee. Then the pandemic happened,” he says.

During the lockdown, Roy and his wife, actress Manasi Joshi Roy, decided to experiment with storytelling from home. “We started shooting short films at home. All we needed were good stories,” he explains. This idea eventually evolved into Locked In Love, an anthology of five short films that received a strong response.

How Locked In Love began

The idea, Roy recalls, came organically.

“One day over coffee, I asked Manasi if she would be interested in shooting films at home. We got excited and brought in our creative collaborator Ritika Bajaj, who sent us a script. That’s how it started,” he says.

What began as a lockdown experiment soon turned into a unique storytelling format featuring just two actors exploring multiple characters.

“I never actually planned to become an actor”

Rohit Roy says acting was never part of a pre-decided career path.

“I never decided to become an actor. It just happened when I got an audition call and got selected,” he shares.

Earlier, he was assisting filmmaker Kunal Kapoor, with ambitions of becoming a director. A chance audition for Shashi Kapoor became a turning point. “He appreciated my work, and that’s when I got encouraged to pursue acting seriously,” Roy recalls.

Family reactions and early struggles

Coming from a middle-class background, Roy’s decision to enter the industry was not initially welcomed.

“My brother Ronit wanted me to become an IAS or IFS officer. My mother wanted me to complete my MBA,” he says.

However, over time, his family became supportive. “My mother has been my biggest support. Today, I owe everything to her.”

I loved playing Vardhan in Sanjivani 2. In my filmography, it will most certainly go down as an iconic character

Why Sanjivani 2’s Vardhan remains special

Rohit Roy’s portrayal of Vardhan in Sanjivani 2 became one of his most talked-about roles.

“It is rare to see a villain get so much love. He was cold, calculated, yet audiences still justified his actions. That was fascinating,” he says.

He compares the role to his earlier iconic character Rishabh Malhotra in Swabhimaan. “After 25 years, Vardhan became another landmark role for me.”

Concerns about industry working conditions

Roy believes the industry still needs structural improvements, especially in on-ground working conditions.

“Shoot locations are often dismal—dirty, unhygienic, with zero sanitisation,” he says.

He also advocates for regulated working hours. “Twelve-hour shifts should ideally be reduced to ten. People forget about spot boys who work 14–16 hours and travel long distances.”

On insecurity, recognition, and awards

Roy acknowledges that insecurity is part of an actor’s life.

“Yes, it’s human to feel left out or disappointed. But depression is a serious medical condition and should not be used loosely,” he says.

He also reflects on awards and recognition. “I once wanted to attend Filmfare, but I stopped being invited. It used to bother me, but not anymore. When I perform well, recognition follows.”

He adds that winning the Dada Saheb Phalke International Film Award for his Gujarati film debut was a meaningful milestone.

My mantra is — Cheat! It’s human! Just put that cheat day behind and get back on track! Your goal is a better you, every passing day!

Theatre remains his first love

Despite working across mediums, theatre continues to hold a special place in Roy’s heart.

“Theatre is my first love. When I step on stage, I feel completely alive,” he says.

He is also looking forward to returning to stage work with Raell Padamsee’s Ace Productions once conditions normalise.

On media scrutiny and conspiracy theories

Roy expresses concern over sensationalism in media coverage, especially around sensitive incidents.

“Everyone starts building theories without facts. It becomes about TRPs rather than truth,” he says.

He emphasises on the importance of responsible reporting and allowing investigative agencies to do their work without speculation.

Life between Bengal, Gujarat, and Mumbai

Born to a Bengali family and raised in Ahmedabad before settling in Mumbai, Roy says he feels culturally connected to all three regions.

“Food is the common thread—Bengali, Gujarati, and even Mumbai culture all celebrate it in their own way,” he laughs.

Future plans

Rohit Roy says direction remains his long-term goal.

“Direction is my true calling. I am working towards starting my film soon,” he shares.

For now, he continues to balance acting, theatre, and digital storytelling—while hoping for a safer, more structured working environment for everyone in the industry.

Photo courtesy www.rohitroy.com