Randeep Hooda
Riding high on the success of Highway, Randeep Hooda is busy making sure that he lands up with all the plumb roles in the industry. After playing a rustic yet amiable villain, the talented actor will be seen playing Charles Shobraj’s role in Main aur Charles. SANGEETA YADAV chats him up on being a successful actor
‘Will do TV for good money’
What made you endorse a fashion brandIJ
I’m delighted that the company thought I was capable of driving in a point with its consumers. Cool Wool has been recently launched by Woolmark and Raymonds. I am very happy to be associated with it. It’s not just any brand that I will be propagating. I’m advertising for this because I believe in it. The way fabric has been weaved is very nice, gives a comfortable feeling and fits perfectly. The material breaks the notion that wool is nothing but winter wear fabric.
After the stupendous success of Highway, where do you see yourself in BollywoodIJ
I don’t consider myself a superstar. As long as I keep considering myself as an actor, I’ll probably keep churning out more hits. The moment I commit the mistake of considering myself as a superstar, I’m sure that day my downfall will start. I’ve always believed that one should accept his shortcomings and be proud of what he is. Ultimately everyone is aam aadmi.
So, life has not changed post HighwayIJ
This film will go down as shaping my career in this industry. I’ve never looked forward to any role as I’ve done for this film. My instinct told me that this was going to be something different. I’m happy I went with the feeling. Having said that, one must treat a film as it comes. Some work their magic at the box office while others fail. I remain level headed at all times.
Who do you give credit to for the successIJ
A lot to Imtiaz Ali because he is the real hero of the movie. Had he not chosen me, had he not made the film, I would not have got the chance to be a part of this type of cinema. I am the biggest fan of Naseeruddin Shah and have learnt acting skills from him. So a lot of credit also goes to him. I owe a lot to my parents who have taught me to take success with a pinch of salt. I would also like to thank my driver Jeeva because he bears the brunt of a lot of my angst.
Your thoughts on this industryIJ
I don’t adhere to the general notion that the industry is a biased and insecure place. I believe there is certain uniqueness that every actor brings to the table. I’ve never wanted to copy the traits of another actor and I can name many others who have carved a niche because of their personal achievements.
How has your journey in Bollywood been thus farIJ
Bollywood has given me my identity and a lot of opportunities to prove myself. I’m very thankful to this industry which taught me how to live. It treated me very kindly throughout my rough patches despite the fact that I had no godfather to support me. I’m very fortunate and thankful.
Any plans of making an appearance on TVIJ
If they give me plenty of money, I’ll do it. I would like to do probably non-fiction. It’ll have to be unique like me.
How is Main aur Charles shaping upIJ
I’m playing Charles Sobhraj which is based on an open chargesheet provided to us by then commissioner of crime in Delhi Amod Kanth. It’s a thriller which revolves around the infamous escape of the serial killer from Tihar jail in 1986.
Other plansIJ
I’m currently shooting for Sajid Nadiadwala’s Kick in the Capital. I’m participating in National Equestrian Championship with my five horses.