Asian Image catches up with Pasha Bocarie who plays Rakesh Kotecha on Emmerdale.

Since appearing on Emmerdale last year, Pasha's character has already garnered a new level of interest.

London born Rakesh joined the cast of Emmerdale as part of Priya Sharma's arranged marriage storyline.

He said, “It’s wonderful to appear on Emmerdale. It is such a popular and established show. The cast and writers are amazing.

“My character is one that resonates with so many people.

“A huge accolade is when people react to the storyline online and express their anger at how Rakesh has behaved or things he has said.

“The audience get so involved in the characters and they engage in aspects of the character’s lives online. That’s a huge compliment in itself.”

Whilst he is best known for appearing in the soap few will realise that he featured in the a Star Wars movie. Something which he has fond memories of.

“Acting has always been my dream. My dream became a reality when I got on set for a role as a pilot in ‘Star Wars Episode 1: The Phantom Menace.’ “I grew up watching Star Wars and George Lucas was an incredible icon.

“After that I pursued acting with more vigour. I went on to study drama at Westminster College in London.”

Pasha has also starred as Amar in ‘Ae Fond Kiss’ directed by acclaimed director Ken Loach as well as Babylon, Casualty, Spooks, Silent Witness and Law & Order.

“I acted in the theatre in ‘The Deranged Marriage’ and ‘Lion of Punjab.’ “Stage is where I came from. I’d love to play the leading actor on stage where ethnicity isn’t an issue.

“On a mainstream level I want to see actors surpassing ethnicity and cultural identity.”

He admits that being in the background as an actor sometimes can be more beneficial than being in the limelight. “I learnt a lot from pure observation. Listening and learning is an important skill set for an actor. That can teach you so much about acting.

“Since my arrival on Emmerdale a year ago, my character has evolved. And will continue to do so. It’s exciting and intriguing for both me and the audience.”