This week, Zee Classic premieres Mammo, the first of Shyam Benegal’s Muslim trilogy. Set in the history of Partition, Mammo is a woman’s story of fortitude against the wrath of destiny. Rajit Kapoor, who plays the lead in this iconic film, recalls his connect
What do you think of Shyam Benegal as a directorIJ
For me it has been an incredible experience knowing him as a filmmaker. Right from my first film with Shyam Benegal, Suraj Ka Satvan Ghoda, the role of which he offered me after seeing a stage performance of mine, it has been a comfortable working equation. Initially the lead role in The Making of the Mahatma was not meant for me but later he reposed faith in me. He is very sensitive to actors’ skills, allows them to explore themselves and enables them to take the best out of them.
How do you view the current progressive wave in BollywoodIJ Whom do you love the most among young directorsIJ
It’s a very encouraging and enthusiastic move. Now it is not difficult for someone to make a film of his choice. Many young film makers with innovative ideas are getting proper production support. I am a great fan of Dibakar Bannerjee.
You received a National award for your role in The Making of the Mahatma. Your thoughts.
Yes, it was long ago, in the year 1996. I have moved on since then. It feels good to be recognised and appreciated for your performance.
Bollywood is led by stars who, sometimes, hinder creative liberty. Your viewsIJ
It has been always like this. However good an actor you are, there are instances when your part gets edited as that outshines the lead’s. I have seen this happening many times.
Your advice to newcomersIJ
At present, I feel, it is more because of an outside influence that one wants to pursue a career in acting. But it shouldn't be so. It is crucial for one to understand that acting is much more than look, it needs a lot of effort and hard work.
What are your future projectsIJ
My next film Bar Bar Dekho is releasing on September 9 and I am currently busy filming Begum Jaan. Another film, Dhoop Charane Ki Baarish, is being exhibited in some of the prestigious film festivals. Begum Jaan is being directed by renowned Bengali filmmaker Srijit Mukherjee, who is making a debut in Bollywood with the same.
For writers and directors, I would say you should have a burning passion and the right realisation of your choice. You should be very patient as one needs to be hard working to establish themselves in the industry.
How do you choose rolesIJ
I have spent 25 years in the film industry and scripts matter a lot to me. The director’s vision is also important. It is essential that my thought process should match with that of the director. I have to connect with the director to be able to work with him.
Any specific artists and directors you would like to work withIJ
No, I do not have any such wishlist. But I do like and eagerly wait for Dibakar Banerjee’s films. I watch them with a lot of excitement. His films always have a new story to tell and interesting screenplays.