Darshan Kumar
Coming from a non-filmy background and getting trained under Naseeruddin Shah, the 28-year-old debutant Darshan Kumar never imagined that he would be launched by Sanjay leela Bhansali and get to work opposite Priyanka Chopra in Mary Kom.In his next film, Kumar is paired with Anushka Sharma. He talks to SANGEETA YADAVabout his Mary Kommoments
‘Husbands should motivate wives’
How challenging was it to play Mary Kom’s husband K Onler KomIJ
In any film, it is essential to stay true to the story and portray the character convincingly, moreso in a biopic. But I didn’t have a chance to meet Onler Kom in person and had to play his character from the perspective of director Omung Kumar. That was a challenge because Onler is not only Mary Kom’s life partner but her friend and pillar of strength. He sacrificed a lot so that she could realise her dream. I read about him in Mary Kom’s autobiography Unbreakable. This helped me do justice to the role. I also had a problem with the Manipuri accent. Hence, a speech expert was hired. Then, I had to lose 12 kg in five months to get that perfect look.
How was it to work with Sanjay leela Bhansali, Priyanka Chopra and Omung KumarIJ
I had never thought that I would get the opportunity to work with Sanjay leela Bhansali so early in my career. His films are larger than life. It is not just about the story but also the way he shoots that makes all the difference. His movies are so picturesque. Priyanka is an incredibly talented, hard working and focussed actor. She is a down-to-earth person and a true inspiration. Omung is clear in his vision and exudes a lot of positive energy.
Which one is your favourite scene from the filmIJ
The marriage ceremony of Mary and Onler is my favourite one. The director has captured this Christian marriage ceremony in a very simplistic way. Everybody will fall in love with this part of the film which is cute yet symbolic.
...And the most demanding sceneIJ
When Mary leaves boxing due to family problems, Onler makes all the efforts to motivate her to get back into the ring. This scene was very demanding and required a lot of mental preparation, knowing the emotional and mental conflicts that Mary was going through at that time.
Many sports movies have been made and many more are set to release. Is this because filmmakers and viewers are in awe of sports personalitiesIJ
Sportsmen are the real unsung heroes and making a movie on their lives is a great way to honour them. This kind of a story not only motivates others to work hard but inspires one to rise above all odds.
You have been trained by Nareeruddin Shah under Motley Theatre...
Nareeruddin sir is my mentor. He used to tell us that if one is talented and hard working, one’s dream will come true one day. ‘Wait for the time, go for the good script and select roles that you can relate to’ is what he told me. ‘The more you’ll challenge yourself, the better you’ll become’ was his philosophy and I agree with it.
How is your upcoming film NH 10 shaping upIJ
The shoot is over and the film is scheduled to release next year. I’m playing a stubborn and arrogant person. The film also has Anushka Sharma and Neil Bhoopalam.
Is there a message in Mary Kom, the filmIJ
The message is loud and clear — every husband should motivate his wife to pursue her dream even after marriage. Marriage should not change things for a woman.