Stalwart of Indian cinema, Manoj Bajpayee recently spoke his mind while promoting his 100th film, "Bhaiyaji," in Indore. The veteran actor emphasized his aversion to being typecast, prioritizing artistic growth over audience expectations.
"My future roles will definitely break away from the mold," declared Bajpayee. "Staying confined to a specific genre stifles me. Playing the same characters gets monotonous."
This unwavering commitment to artistic exploration fuels Bajpayee's dedication to his craft.
He elaborates, "I constantly strive to evolve as an actor. Embracing new challenges is paramount. My focus lies on personal development, not necessarily on audience approval. Frankly, I rarely consider audience opinion."
When questioned about the potential return of family-oriented and socially-driven films to theaters, Bajpayee offered a broader perspective.
"The primary objective right now is to lure audiences back to theaters," he asserted. "We need to rekindle the joy of communal movie-going. This is the collective responsibility of every filmmaker and artist."
For Bajpayee, the cinematic experience transcends the film itself.
"The true essence of a film, irrespective of genre, can only be fully appreciated on the big screen, surrounded by the energy of a hundred or more fellow viewers," he believes.
The rise of OTT platforms has undoubtedly transformed the entertainment landscape.
Bajpayee acknowledges this shift, conceding that mobile phones are increasingly becoming the go-to device for film consumption.
However, he cautions, "While convenient, these mobile platforms limit the ability to fully appreciate the artistic nuances of a film."
Finally, addressing rumors of a potential foray into politics, Bajpayee remained clear-eyed.
"The world of politics is an enigma to me," he confessed. "While I fulfill my civic duty and vote regularly, my primary focus remains the world of entertainment."
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