Rajpal believes in creating a balance with his roles

He is funny, witty and has the perfect timing in comedy. Though he is known for his comic roles, Bollywood actor Rajpal Yadav has worked on both serious films and as negative characters. He is known for movies like ‘Chup chup ke’, ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa’, ‘Main, Meri Patni Aur Woh’ and ‘Main Madhuri Dixit Banna Chahti Hoon’.

In a chat with Surupasree Sarmmah, Rajpal talks about his latest film ‘Tishnagi’ and opens up about his biggest fear.

Your movie seems to have an interesting plot. Tell us a little about ‘Tishnagi’.

This movie is a thriller-love story. I am playing the character of a common man named, Monty in the film. It is a whole new team that I have worked with this time. Being a part of this film is my way of showing my support to the new cast and the new production house. For me, a movie is not about playing the lead role or a supporting actor, it is more about creating a balance.

What convinced you to take up the film?

I like to work with new energy and people. This helps me to learn new things. It has been 33 years of my acting career. I started off with theatre and then television and now films. And in these many years, there have been many things that have come and gone but the only thing that remained constant was my desire to act. Work has always been my true friend and I am so thankful for that.

You have worked primarily in the comedy genre, did you worry that people will typecast you?

I used to worry but now it has become much easier to prove myself. I have earned the love of people with my work and that is enough for me. In an era of social media, the world has become a small village, everybody is familiar with each other.

What is the most difficult part of being an actor?

To satisfy everyone with my work is the most difficult part.

Do you consider yourself a versatile actor?

I have grown up believing this. There is no harm in doing so, does it? It cost nothing to anyone (laughs).

What is your biggest fear?

The more we are becoming educated, the more we are forgetting our basic lessons. Seeing people disrespecting women, mistreating children and being cruel towards other fellow humans is scary. Unless your conscience is clear, being educated is of no use.

Your name has become synonymous with comedy films, do you consciously choose such movies more frequently or does it just come your way?

I am one of the luckiest actors to have done many versatile roles. From ‘Bhopal: A Prayer for Rain’ and ‘Jungle’ to ‘Main Madhuri Dixit Banna Chahti Hoon’ and ‘Main, Meri Patni Aur Who’, ‘Chup Chup Ke’ and ‘Hangama’ I have worn many hats, though these movies are entertaining, what I enjoy are the roles I play. They have all been different.

If given a chance, which yesteryear movie character would you like to essay?

There are many characters played by some brilliant actors. However, I would like to play the role of Amitabh Bachchan in the movie ‘Namak Halal’.

Any future projects that you can take a mention?

I am currently working for ‘Housefull 4’. Apart from this, there are a couple of movies where I will be playing the lead role like ‘Bada Don’, ‘Sundarkand’ and ‘Shoor Bahaddur’.