His debut film, The Archies, received a lukewarm response, but Vedang Raina survived the setback. Now, his performance in Main Vaapas Aaunga is earning praise as one of the film’s understated strengths. In this interview, Vedang opens up about portraying a Sikh character and lending his voice to the film’s songs.How did you bring in your birthday?It was a quiet birthday, just family and close friends. I am not into much shor sharaaba,AR Rahman has praised your voice in Main Vaapas Aaunga…It’s one of the biggest compliments of my life. He’s a genius and I’ve been the biggest fan of his work since I was a little boy. I still can’t fathom that he really said this. But luckily it’s on camera so I know I was not dreaming.Your big-ticket film has arrived. What are your thoughts and feelings?I’m feeling quite good about all the response we’ve gotten till now. A lot of people from the industry and otherwise have messaged me about how they’ve really loved the trailer and songs. However, I’m feeling nervous.Main Vaapas Aaunga gave you a rare opportunity to play a Sardar, how much discipline and dedication did that require?I had to completely transform myself physically and mentally, and feel comfortable in my new self. It was such a privilege to put a pag (turban) on and play this character. This was a special experience and I hope people feel the same way.The film is set during Partition. As a displaced Kashmiri Pundit, how closely did you identify with the theme?I’ve heard stories of Partition, I’ve heard stories about Kashmir from my parents and grandparents. How we had to leave our home behind. I strongly feel a sense of returning home—of reclaiming something that was once mine but had been lost. I was able to carry that feeling into the world of our film as well.Between Archies and Main Vaapas Aunga, how much change do you feel as an actor?I think I’ve grown a lot. And if you know me personally, you would know that these words about myself don’t come easily to me. I really feel that difference when I’m on the sets. I also believe that I’ve grown so much as a human being from all the experiences I’ve had in the past couple of years, that I could carry that into my craft.How would you describe your vibes with your immediate co-star Sharvari in Main Vapas Aaunga?I have a very good equation with Sharvari. We became really good friends through the course of this film and it was genuinely such a great experience working with her. I find her outlook very similar to mine, and I love that we both are very driven towards what we’re doing. I’ll always be rooting for her.You are only three films old. What have you learnt about the film industry in this short time?I’ve learnt that things take time. And, what’s most important is to work on yourself and deliver when it’s important. Nothing else matters. What people around you tell you to worry about, it’s usually never relevant. Everything falls into place when you’re good at what you do. And that’s my only goal. I hope I reach a place where I can do work that genuinely moves people. That’s my mission.