Sharman Joshi tells Shrabasti Mallik about delving into the horror genre and how he believes in the supernatural
There is something about Sharman Joshi — something that makes him very likeable. It might be the way he talks because silent it comes naturally to him or may be because over the past few years he has given Indian cinema few very memorable characters the affable Sukhi in Rang De Basanti, the over-religious Raju Rastogi in 3 idiots and the goody two shoes laxman in the Golmaal series.
But meet him in person and he will come across as your next door neighbour — humble, funny and very down to earth. He does not carry that air of an actor and we can credit that to his years in the theatre. In fact, he will really get involved in a conversation and leave not even the slightest opportunity to crack a joke or make a gesture which will leave you in splits.
When an actor as real as him decides to say yes to the horror genre franchise movie 1920 london, some questions are bound to be raised. And Joshi was more than happy to answer them.
After dabbling mostly in the comic genre, horror was not a welcome change but the story appealed to the actor so much that he could not refuse. “I have never explored this particular genre of storytelling so the journey has been quite dramatic and exciting,” he said, not forgetting to flash a smile.
Helmed by Tinu Suresh Desai, the movie is about human relations upon which the supernatural elements are imbedded. Working with him was a delight for Joshi and he could not stop praising him enough. “He is an absolute brilliant guy talented, focussed and hard working. His best quality was that he had a clear idea of exactly how he wanted the film to be made. So for an actor that matters a lot,” said Joshi.
Being approached for a movie that is quite different from the body of work that you have done so far might come as a surprise and the actor might have shared a similar feeling when Vikram Bhatt, who was supposed to be producing the film, came to him with the script. “Needless to say, I was delighted. Vikram called and asked whether I would be interested in the third part of the 1920 franchise. I was more than happy to be a part of it,” said the actor who blatantly confessed that he has not seen the first two movies of the series.
Stepping into the shoes of an exorcist is daunting but it was not quite tough for Joshi because he “completely believes in the paranormal.” Our silence gave our state of surprise away. “Yes, I can see ghosts,” he laughed and turned serious. “I believe in energies and all the more so because I come from the theatre. There is something about it. Before the show starts there is an empty stage before the audience comes in. Its magical depending on whatever the mood is. That energy is not tangible but its very evident,” he pointed out.
It was, therefore, not very difficult to relate to the character of Jai Singh, who helps people, who have any evil spirits or any supernatural element in their lives. “There was no real preparation that I did because the role did not demand such technical knowledge. The movie hinges more on the story than the character. The only aspect which required some preparation was where I had to say some mantras. Otherwise, I followed the script, relied on my instincts and went with the flow,” Joshi elaborated.
The genre is not exploited as often as romance and action in the industry but fewer are the number of mainstream actors who agree for one. We asked Joshi about what he thought and pat came the reply, “First I think it is because it is not as popular as the other genres so actors shy away from them.” He paused for a second, lost in thought and continued, “Also because at times, it gets boring from an actor’s perspective.”
Post this, he is awaiting the release of Wajah Tum Ho, produced by T-Series. “After that I have Sayonara and the second part of Tom Dick and Harry,” he wrapped up.