When you moved from Bihar, did it ever occur to you that there are such big stars here, so why would someone buy a ticket to see your film?(Laughs) When I moved from Bihar to Mumbai, I never once thought about the big stars here or whether people would buy tickets to see my films. Looking back now, maybe I should have. I remember the moment vividly when I was on the RORO Ferry from Mandwa, coming from Alibaug. It was a large boat and I stood on the rooftop deck watching the Mumbai skyline in the distance. I turned to my wife and wondered aloud why we had come to such a huge city. Despite my initial doubts, we managed to establish ourselves here, which is truly wonderful. Sometimes I don’t quite grasp it all, but then I believe it’s a result of divine blessings. Countless aspiring actors arrive in Mumbai every day. Yet, I also believe that everyone’s circumstances are partly shaped by their own actions.In a Filmfare interview, Sharmila Tagore mentioned that you are her favourite actor and she loves your film Mango Trees…When an actress of her stature compliments you and says such wonderful things, I feel deeply grateful beyond words. Mango Trees was an independent film that is now available on online platforms. Her appreciation means a lot to me; I can only express immense gratitude to the almighty and to legends like her for taking the time to watch and appreciate it. Interestingly, I had the good fortune of meeting her about 24 years ago when I was studying at
the National School of Drama. She had come to see a play and though she might not remember, I vividly recall greeting her during that occasion.Do you feel the need for validation is less than compared to when you were struggling?Receiving a compliment from someone like Sharmila ji for Mango Trees means a lot to me. She’s a seasoned actor who truly understands an artiste’s talent. This validation is crucial because it comes from someone with deep knowledge and experience in the craft. Apart from that, I’m quite self-critical; I constantly evaluate and check myself every day.
Is it challenging to decline offers with substantial pay but unexciting roles?
Yes, I decline them now. In the past, I would accept such projects and find ways to make them engaging. Every job can be made interesting; there’s no work that can’t be made captivating. A dull role can become appealing when approached creatively. Ultimately, it’s up to us to make it so.Regarding Mirzapur Season 3 ending with a cliffhanger, do you worry about meeting changing audience expectations?I never get nervous during the release of any film or show. That’s just how I am wired. I remain balanced without getting overly excited or anxious. Our job was done during the shoot; now it’s out of our control. Fingers crossed.This kind of calm and composure must be beneficial for an actor.Absolutely, it’s been integral to my approach. While many seek calm through meditation and other means, I find it amidst chaos, and it has served me well thus far.Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury, has glowing praise for Kadak Singh.I can’t praise Tony Da enough. Besides being an outstanding filmmaker and writer, he’s a remarkable person. Working on that film holds cherished memories for me; it always brings a smile to my face. He gives his all on set, and he even jokes, “My body is rejecting this shot, not me,” which I found amusing and unique. I spoke with him just yesterday; I encouraged him to write a story, and he mentioned he’s considering it. We bonded really well during the making of Kadak Singh. The bond was great and our fun lies in the process. With Tony Da, that’s what clicked.
I also really like Kaushik Ganguly’s work.
You’ve often mentioned how you watch a lot of regional films, Bengali being one.
Yes, I do not watch Hindi mainstream cinema, I prefer films belonging to the independent arena.
Tell us a few of your favourite Bengali films.I liked Haami (2018) directed by Shibhoprosad Mukherjee and Nandita Roy. Kaushik Da toh hai hi. Buddhadeb Dasgupta was also a favourite, I loved his work. I believe there’s some connection with Bengal from my last life I guess. Because I’m also so fond of the food, film festivals and landscape that true-blue Bengalis also enjoy.When you connect with a director, what factors contribute to that bond?Shared interests are fundamental; they foster conversations that flow naturally. In my case, both my passion for food and engaging discussions revolve around Bengal. As I said earlier, it’s like there’s a connection from
a past life.You excel in comedy, often considered the toughest genre. What gives you that edge?I have a genuine passion for comedy. What sets my approach apart is delivering humour in a serious manner, making the punchline unexpected. I’m not fond of exaggerated facial expressions or forced humour. For me, perfect comic timing and natural situations are crucial to avoid falling flat. I believe everyone faces challenges,
and audiences turn to movies for entertainment. Even in serious films, I find ways to inject humour subtly to keep them smiling. Life itself offers unexpected moments of humour; let me share an incident from the sets of Mirzapur.
Please continue…In Season 1, Kaleen Bhaiya calls Guddu and Bablu home after their fight with Munna. When I arrive at Kaleen Bhaiya’s living room, I notice the imposing throne-like chair with a smaller one beside it. Instead of sitting on the throne, I choose the smaller chair. The director immediately reacts, saying, ‘Sir, you’re supposed to sit on the bigger chair.’ I explain that’s their preconceived notion. For me, unpredictability is key. It’s expected that a don rules from the throne, but I prefer sitting on the smaller chair, challenging expectations. I believe in breaking preconceptions and surprising the audience each time. Life’s more fun when it’s unexpected, right?In an interview, you mentioned experiencing odd moments while travelling on public transport and seeing your film poster.(Laughs) Yes, once I saw my OMG 2 poster on the back of an auto rickshaw and ended up having a full conversation with the driver who couldn’t believe it was me. Another time, I was on the metro with my mask on, sitting between a passenger and a team member. I asked the passenger about a destination, and upon hearing my voice, he said, ‘You sound like Pankaj Tripathi.’ I confirmed, it was me, but he still couldn’t believe it. I joked that if he didn’t believe me, then maybe I wasn’t Pankaj Tripathi after all. He persisted and even followed me to the end of the metro station, insisting we take a photo together without revealing to anyone at his banking
job. We found a secluded spot, took the photo, and then I left. Truly, stranger things have happened.What’s it like?
Some people video call their family members after taking a picture with me. They introduce me as their long-lost uncle or a dear family member, not just an actor. Some even invite me to visit their city and meet them someday. I always agree and appreciate their affection. It’s their love and
I feel truly grateful for it.
Do you believe in advising new and aspiring actors?
Oh, I do give advice when they persistently seek it from me. But seriously,
I always tell them that my advice might not apply to their journey because everyone’s path is unique. You have to carve your own way; imitation won’t lead you anywhere. Instead of following me or anyone else, discover yourself. In acting, we often unconsciously mimic actors we admire. However, it’s crucial to understand who they are, what they’ve accomplished, and how they’ve made an impact. Then, find that unique element within yourself because that’s where true originality lies.
But can anyone really get under your skin with constant pestering?
Oh no, that’s quite a challenge. It takes a lot to make me impatient, angry, or provoke me. It just doesn’t happen easily. I decide when I want to feel angry I used to give a lot of advice in the past, but not anymore. Nowadays, there’s so much advice everywhere, even unsolicited. It’s like the sun radiating sunlight without being asked.
