You may admire him, you may despise him, but you can never ignore him, both on and off screen. Indeed, that is Paresh Rawal, a pillar of Indian cinema, embodying roles as a hero, villain, comic, and versatile actor celebrated for his unmatched range and flawless portrayals. With a career spanning several decades, Rawal has left an indelible mark on the Indian film industry through his nuanced portrayals, impeccable comic timing, and compelling dramatic performances. He has seamlessly transitioned between genres, effortlessly embodying a diverse array of characters with depth and authenticity. He became a Member of Parliament (MP) from Ahmedabad East constituency in the 2014 Indian general election on a BJP ticket. In 2014, he was awarded the Padma Shri. Rawal’s journey in acting has been nothing short of extraordinary, marked by his unwavering commitment to his craft and his ability to continually push the boundaries of his art.

One of his most remarkable contributions to Indian cinema has been his ability to infuse realism and depth into his characters, elevating them beyond mere caricatures and stereotypes. Rawal is celebrated for his mastery of both comedic and dramatic roles, effortlessly oscillating between light-hearted comedy and intense drama with equal finesse. His impeccable comic timing has endeared him to audiences across generations, while his ability to evoke genuine emotion has earned him critical acclaim. Furthermore, Rawal’s dedication to his roles goes beyond mere performance; he delves deep into the psyche of his characters, bringing them to life with layers of complexity and nuance.

Whether portraying a bumbling comic or a morally conflicted individual, Rawal’s performances resonate with authenticity and depth, leaving a lasting impression on viewers. In addition to his prowess as an actor, Rawal has also made significant contributions to Indian theatre and television, further solidifying his status as a true icon of the performing arts. His ability to seamlessly transition between mediums highlights his versatility and enduring relevance in an ever-evolving industry. Paresh Rawal’s illustrious career serves as a testament to the transformative power of acting, showcasing how dedication, talent, and a relentless pursuit of excellence can elevate the craft to new heights. As he continues to captivate audiences with his unparalleled performances, Rawal remains a shining beacon of inspiration for aspiring actors and a true legend of Indian cinema. He talked to Gyaneshwar Dayal about his acting and stint in politics.

You are celebrating Bharat Rang Mahotsav 2024 National at the School of Drama. What is it about and how has the experience been? How do you see it as the Chairperson of NSD?

We are very excited about it. We are into the 25th year and that too in Amritkal. It is all about connecting people; understanding people. Theatre is entertaining as well as enlightening. It is a medium through which we can patch our differences and know each other better. I am happy that we are celebrating it in Amrit kal which makes it even more special.

You are an actor who took to politics. How has politics changed your acting and choice of scripts and approach?

Well, broadly speaking, actors are confined to their comfort zone, in a way they are insulated from the problems the country faces. When you are in Parliament you know about it from all angles, laid threadbare. And that gives you a right perspective. I would say that stays with you and subconsciously affects your acting and approach to cinema.

Your journey in the world of acting has been nothing short of remarkable. How do you approach the roles you accept?

I try to do justice to the role I get and my training in theatre helps me a lot. I am Eklavya of theatre which means all the details and minute nuances of the role must be given due importance and done with finesse.

You have done myriad roles but there must be one which is close to your heart?

I would say the role of Sardar Patel. He was indeed one of the greatest statesmen and politicians we have had. It not only made me a better actor but also a better citizen. While preparing for it, I was flabbergasted by his personality and work. I came to know that the history we are taught is mutilated and full of lies. There were many people who got us independence, not just two. Sardar Patel was sidelined and forgotten.

You have been associated with Marathi theatre for a long time. Do you think theatre is more progressive than cinema?

Yes, that is correct to say. Theatre is progressive and has long traditions of breaking stereotypes and helping society do some serious thinking about itself.

Your ability to seamlessly transition between comedic and dramatic roles is truly commendable. How do you approach such diverse characters?

Each character, comedic or dramatic, comes with its own set of challenges and nuances. For me, the key lies in understanding the essence of the character and tapping into their emotional core. Whether it is finding the perfect timing for a comedic scene or delving into the complexities of a dramatic role, I always strive to bring authenticity to my performances. I also believe in extensive research and preparation, which allows me to inhabit the character fully and deliver a memorable portrayal.

You began with a career and then had a stint with politics. How does politics shape your acting style?

Acting is, of course, a craft which must be learnt and perfected while politics is learned when you enter it. When you are in Parliament you get to know the real India, its people, its problems, what the Government is doing, and where you fit in. It is a humbling experience.

Do you think actors have a role to play in politics?

Of course. If they want to become full-time politicians, they should prepare for it. If they do not want to enter it, fine but still they should know about it. After all, they are also part of society and should be aware of its challenges and problems. They should not just curse sitting on the sidelines and come forward to make a change. Those who enter politics must be serious about it and be be aware and of the opportunities and challenges politics throws at them.