Back Friday Review Bangalore Chennai and Tamil Nadu Delhi Hyderabad Thiruvananthapuram
The thinker’s actor
He has many awards to his credit, and bagged more than one award as the Best Actor for his stellar performance in the 1994 blockbuster Krantiveer. Seasoned actor Nana Patekar talks about the sequel to the film and the role of citizens in the country. Excerpts from an interview
A sequel to your 1990s blockbuster Krantiveer is coming up.
I did Krantiveer not for the money, but because it had a strong message. The film talked about the situation then, and the riots. It’s sad that the situation has not improved; and, a film like that has to be made again.
Why do you think things have not changed? Who is responsible?
You, I, everyone — we are provoked to do wrong things.
How do you think we can bring about a change?
If we don’t fulfil our duties as citizens, then this’ll continue. Fortunately, now the elections are approaching. It’s our duty to vote and choose the right candidate. A person who doesn’t vote will be the biggest culprit. If you think Election Day is a holiday to just sit at home and relax, then you have no right to complain and blame others.
Which party are you supporting?
I don’t support any party. I will vote for the right person, and I have not decided who it is yet. I don’t even know who is contesting the elections from my constituency.
What is the strongest memory you have from Krantiveer?
I clearly remember the time it was shot. Then, there was so much tension between the Hindus and the Muslims. I hope it doesn’t happen again. We must accept that we have to live together. We should live in the same spirit of brotherhood as we did earlier.
What about Krantiveer co-star Dimple Kapadia?
Mera purana dost hai Dimple — Dimple’s my old friend (laughs).
Why are you not a part of the Krantiveer’s sequel?
I do a role only if it’s an integral part of the film, and if it excites me.
Do you think films mirror the society?
There are different kinds of film — some are realistic, some semi-realistic, and a few others slapstick. Have you seen A Wednesday?
Yes.
It talks about the common man’s agony today.
What agonises you the most?
When we hit each other. The main problem is poverty and population, but nobody is paying attention to that. At times, they say population is our strength. That amazes me.
Ek released recently. What kind of response have you got?
I don’t know. Once my dubbing is over, I just forget my film. I just unwind, and get into another role.
What is happening with Horn Ok Pleassss?
The film is very well made. It’s stuck due to recession.
What kind of a role inspires you?
I would have loved to be part of A Wednesday. But such films are not made often.
Which is your dream role?
I wanted to do Bhagat Singh’s role, but can’t do it now.
Why?
Bhagat Singh died for the country when he was in his twenties. I think I am a little too old for that now.
© Copyright 2000 - 2009 The Hindu
Nana Patekar laments nothing has changed since the riot-ridden days of the 1990s
Role play Nana Patekar wants to do a film like ‘A Wednesday’.