Mumbai, Jul 21 (IANS): Jay Bhanushali, a popular actor and television host, says he worked as a salesman at one point of time.

It was his role in producer Ekta Kapoor's 2007 show "Kayamath" that made him a heartthrob. Before that he did another show and a few advertisements. But his resume is not just about his work in showbiz.

"My father was a bank manager and would always tell us, 'You should know earning money is not that easy'. We (he, brother and others) were told that after 10th grade we would have to pick up part-time jobs instead of loitering around with friends. And that's what I did," Jay said in a statement.

"I sold books and worked as salesman in a couple of branded shoe stores," he said and added "it was not my thing".

"People would tell me I could try my hand at acting and become a hero. I considered the suggestion and gave it a serious thought," said the former "Dance India Dance" host.

He isn't ashamed of his past and sees it as an experience that taught him to stay grounded.

Jay is currently hosting kids' singing reality show "Superstar Singer".