Manraj Singh: Playing a character for a long time feels like carrying someone else’s life within you

Actor Manraj Singh, currently seen as Harshvardhan in Tumm Se Tumm Tak, says television is a medium that never allows an actor to slow down.

“Television never lets you relax,” Manraj shares. “You may know the broad framework, but scenes keep changing depending on audience response and TRPs. Sometimes the story needs a shock, sometimes a pause, or an emotional cliffhanger that makes viewers say, ‘I have to watch the next episode.’ When a show runs daily for months or even years, it becomes a marathon.”

He explains that actors often have to disconnect from their personal state of mind. “There are days when your personal energy is low, but the character needs intensity. And sometimes you’re feeling light and happy, but the scene demands breakdowns or darkness. You can’t fake it — the audience senses it instantly. You dig deeper and give the scene what it needs.”

According to Manraj, constant narrative twists add both excitement and exhaustion. “Sudden turns bring new layers to the character — shifts in behaviour, emotions, and inner conflicts. That keeps the performance alive, but it’s mentally and physically demanding. Playing one character for such a long time means you’re living your life while also carrying someone else’s life within you.”

Manraj enjoys portraying layered emotions. “Human life isn’t one colour. It’s love, loss, rage, fear, hope — sometimes all at once. Exploring those contradictions is fulfilling.”