Since TV direction was very taxing, I opted for a creative’s job: Creative Head Rajesh Sethi

Rajesh Sethi, who is currently the Creative Head of Sagar Arts’ Jai Jai Jai Jai Bajrang Bali, started his career in films as an associate director with Yash Raj Films (YRF). But later having directed a lot of films and TV serials, he opted for a creative’s job as he found TV direction too taxing. In fact, Jai Jai… is his first show as a Creative Head.

Excerpts:

Tell us about your journey in the industry?

(smiles) I am from Delhi. And when I completed my graduation from the Delhi University, I knew that I wanted to get into the entertainment industry. Hence, I joined YRF as the Chopras were our family friend. I joined them as an associate director and went on to be the chief associate director for films like Trishul, Kala Patthar, Silsila, Mashaal and Faisla.

Why did you get into TV from films and how?

At that point of time, films were going through a transition period and getting a particular project wasn’t that easy. At the same time, television was growing as a medium. Hence, I opted for TV.

After I directed films like Angaaray and Jeene Do, I worked on a serial for Yash Raj but it never went on-air. So, I did a couple of ad films for them after which I got into directing serials like Saath Phere, Saathi Re and Grihasti, to name a few.

How and when did you shift from direction to be a creative?

I found TV direction to be very taxing as one has to shoot for 12 to 13 hours at a stretch. Not able to withstand the strain any more beyond a certain time, I took up a creative’s job. Now, I can work at my own pace. Yes, but in this trade, I am not earning as much as I was in direction.

Why do TV actors throw more tantrums compared to film actors?

In films, you do not get instant success. You have to work hard towards it. But in TV, things happen instantly. Here you get instant fame and money; but most of the youngsters fail to handle it.

Tell us something about your family?

I have my better half and two sons back home. The eldest, who is doing engineering, is in Bangalore while the younger one is in the HSC; he wants to get into law. So, none of my children want to get into entertainment.

Your future plans?

As of now I do not have any plans; just want to go with the flow.