India, July 10 -- On the occasion of Guru Purnima, actor Sparsh Shrivastava says that the idea of a "Guru" goes far beyond a formal mentor- it's about energy, influence, and the ability to guide without always giving direct advice.

"Life has been my biggest guru. It teaches you things that no one can," says Sparsh adding, how there are a handful of people in the industry who he calls his guru as they have made a huge difference in his life.

"I had no theatre background, didn't attend any acting school. While shooting for Balika Vadhu, (director) Sidharth Sengupta sir really focused on how we performed. He scolded me a lot, but it was full of love. That discipline helped me grow," says Sparsh.

The actor adds how working in Jamtara, and ...