Your next film ‘Double XL’ has a strange name and looks completely different from your first film ‘Notebook’. Did you choose the film because of the unique content?
‘Double XL’ is an interesting film. I can’t reveal much except that it is about plus size people. This is something that I have observed very closely in my life. I have seen my sister, cousins, friends go through body shaming. I was talking to a friend recently and he said that it is very annoying when you meet someone after a long time, the first thing you notice is the weight of that person. It is not just about women, but also about men. I have become aware of it now, not to comment on one’s weight. I have some friends who have been vocal about it so I know. Otherwise I would have been unaware of it. I am glad that I am a part of this interesting film.
There are many speculations about your bonding with Sonakshi Sinha. Is there any truth in the rumours?
He is one of my best friends. I don’t know why these rumors started all of a sudden. We have all been hanging out together for so many years. We are friends for a long time.
What will be your priority in 2022? Career or personal life?
I have signed two films. One is a sports film and the other is an action comedy. I always pray that not only in 2022, but also in life I have to fight for a day off. I hope I have got enough work that I cannot take a day off.
There was an incident when someone told me that a man’s neck was deep at work and he was praying for leave. God listened and what was going on in the film also stopped. There wasn’t much work that came his way. I get so scared thinking about that story. I pray that there never comes a time when I am sitting at home without work.
Your debut film ‘Notebook’ has received good response from critics and audience alike. were you disappointed?
It was a bit sad that the film did not do well at the box office. It’s a different thing when you know the movie is bullshit. But whoever saw ‘Notebook’ liked it. So, it was a bit sad that the film didn’t become a success at the box office. But I am a positive person. It took me a few weeks to brush it off. I went backpacking alone, got my ideas together and got ready to start all over again. It’s easy to celebrate success. But a man is tested when he is down. I learned a lot and came out stronger.
Have you had to frequently reach out to people for work?
I’m shameless I have no qualms in asking for work. You know, even at a party, I’ve asked the filmmakers, can I come to your office and discuss work. I am a realist. I don’t pretend to be busy. You have to be hungry and chase what you want.
how would you describe your relationship with Salman Khan Today?
Whenever I’m confused, I run to him. They have trained us well, and explained us clearly how the industry works. Today we probably need him not three times a day, but maybe once a week, to guide us on the big things. He is always there for us.
Have you ever thought about a career behind the camera?
You know, how much I talk, if I direct a film, it will be a 6-8 hour film. I don’t know which detail not to give. I tell and shoot everything. I have no aspirations to become a director. But yes, I definitely want to get into production. I am a problem solver and I love business. It gives me a kick. You will hear the news as soon as I am ready to go into production.
A lot of young actors have found success on the OTT platform through web shows. Have you ever considered that route?
I heard a few offers but nothing excited me. But it’s not like I wouldn’t do that. Actually, I am looking forward to this medium.
What is your take on producers opting for hybrid releases during the COVID times and releasing their films on both OTT and theatres?
To be honest, I think as a producer while releasing a film, you want to make sure that it gets maximum exposure. Once you settle down on the math, it all depends on it. If releasing the film in theaters as well as on OTT in a week or two works for you, then why not. It also depends on how much faith you have in a film. Do you think people will come to theaters to watch your film even if it is available on OTT? This is a gamble.
Today, ‘Pushpa‘ Is doing great in OTT as well as in theatres. This is a film where you have faith that people will come to the theaters no matter what happens.
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