On being asked you have spoken in the past about the fact that mainstream Hindi cinema has been neglected for a long time. What’s your take now?

The power of commercial cinema cannot be underestimated. It is so easy to derogate the existence of popular cinema. I have been part of both sides, many times; the popular cinema and on the other side, the world of Satyajit Ray. One cannot compare the two. But they have contributed to Hindi Cinema in their way.

Your movies like ‘Aradhana’ and ‘Chupke Chupke’ crossed all cultural, religious and political boundaries. How did you feel?

I saw my movies; ‘Aradhana’ and ‘Chupke Chupke’ were recognized with the same enthusiasm in different cities of the country. Everywhere the people connected with the same reactions and emotions for these movies. I was in South Africa once. There they told me, “Your films were our only connection to India in the sixties. Every Sunday we would dress up and go to the cinema to see your movies”.

That’s true, indeed. Indian actors do have a fan base in every nook and corner of the world. What do you feel?

Dilip Kumar was so popular in many countries around the globe. Dilip Kumar’s popularity transcended borders. In Pakistan, they made him the highest civil honour.

Do you think Indian cinema is shaping the Indian way of thinking?

I am part of two film industries, in Bengal and Mumbai. And they contribute a lot to society. To lighten the mood, you can switch to a commercial at any time. One forgets the value of these film animators. Of course, there are good movies, bad movies, and indifferent movies. But there is a lot of variety to keep oneself entertained.

 

Which one amongst your achievements do you consider to be the best?

I know you like me more in ‘Amar Prem’ (smiled cheerfully). I’m good at it.

And what about Saif?

What’s wrong with him?

Which of his achievements do you value highly?

I think Vishal Bhardwaj’s Omkara was a turning point for him. He showed that he could transform into a character completely alien to his personality. I also enjoy the light-hearted roles done by him.

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