Below are excerpts from the interview:
Following your impactful contributions to films such as ‘Pink’ and ‘Lost,’ what motivated you to undertake the project of ‘Kadak Singh’?
Whenever I make a film, I have an urge to tell a particular story and evoke certain emotions that I can relate to. These are experiences either I or my close circle have encountered. All my films, be they Bengali or Hindi, are drawn from the atmosphere and events around me. Kadak Singh is a story I wanted to share about financial crimes and how people exploit others, particularly the middle class. The film sheds light on the cheat fund issue, where common people were duped. I may not be a government official, but through my art, I can initiate a conversation and create awareness. Kadak Singh also explores a dysfunctional family and an intense, unnamed love affair, such as the relationship between a nurse and a patient, showcasing emotional and intellectual support. The film emphasises the importance of taking responsibility in life—for nature, the environment, and each other.
We have a sea of talented actors in Indian cinema; why did you opt for Pankaj Tripathi to play this role?
When casting for a film, I create a wish list. Pankaj Tripathi perfectly fits the role of a grounded officer dealing with financial fraud. His authentic appearance aligns with the character’s background. Additionally, the narrative demands a determined yet dysfunctional character, showcasing a complex relationship and retrograde amnesia. Pankaj is a great actor, authentic, and unbelievable. He is super. His less-is-more approach suits the character. When I met him, there was a conviction that he was the perfect fit. It’s a symbiotic and organic evolution in casting.
Have you had the opportunity to watch Pankaj’s earlier movies, and if so, which one resonated with you the most?
I loved his films like ‘Newton’, ‘Mirzapur’, ‘Bareilly Ki Barfi’, and ‘Mimi’. Pankaj is a versatile and realistic actor who brings authenticity to every role. His performance in ‘Criminal Justice’ as a lawyer was particularly commendable.
Pankaj Tripathi reveals real-life gangsters approached him after the success of ‘Gangs of Wasseypur’
Having collaborated with both Amitabh Bachchan and Pankaj Tripathi, what common traits or similarities have you observed in their approach to acting?
Both actors, despite their vast experience, remain hungry for perfection. Mr. Bachchan, in particular, stays on set, displaying a commitment and integrity that everyone should learn from. Their dedication gives not only an on-screen result but also an energy that enriches everyone around them.
Among Amitabh Bachchan, Pankaj Tripathi, Jami Gautami, and Taapsee Pannu, which actor would you consider someone who aligns particularly well with the director’s?
In cinema, collaboration is key. A director’s role is to inspire, tell a story, and convince. It’s about creating harmony and collaboration. Every actor, including Taapsee, Jami, and Pankaj, has contributed positively, and the exchange of thoughts and ideas leads to the creation of a film.
Is your deliberate choice to frequently explore themes of thrillers, mysteries, and serious social dramas in your films a conscious decision to steer clear of commercial masala films?
My films, whether serious social dramas or relationship-oriented, can be commercial too. The focus is on telling a truthful story with the right intent. Commercial success doesn’t necessarily mean following a formula; it’s about creating commerce through authentic storytelling. Intent and belief in the story are crucial to me.
