GANGS OF WASSEYPUR has done reasonably well with collections to the tune of 25 crores already in its kitty.
While this is for the first that a film with Manoj Bajpai in the lead has boasted of such good numbers, it is also after ages that he has been seen as a central protagonist.
Otherwise in his last major film LANKA he was an antagonist whereas in AARAKSHAN, RAAJNEETI, JAIL and ACID FACTORY, he was one of the many principal characters.
Did the fact that the story was told with him as a focal point further charge him up further for GANGS OF WASSEYPUR?
"Now that won't be a fair thing to say," Manoj says in a complaining tone, "In the films that you just mentioned, did you find me any less convincing? Really, a good role is a good role and it doesn't really matter to me whether I am playing this so-called 'central role' or not.
Earlier it was RAAJNEETI and AARAKSHAN and now it is going to be CHAKRAVYUH and SHOOTOUT AT WADALA; I am excited and proud of each of these films.
In any case, the very fact that you have been roped in for a central lead doesn't necessarily mean that it is going to be a good role. You have to make your moves intelligently."
No wonder, despite being an all-important part of GANGS OF WASSEYPUR, there were some other actors in the film as well who kept Manoj Bajpai on his toes.
"I think Nawazuddin Siddiqui (who plays his son) is simply superlative in the film. I have complete admiration for him and you have to see what he does in second part of the film.
Then there is Vineet Kumar (who plays his other son) who is very intense as well. Both have their own grammar of acting which is very unique and captivating. Due to these youngsters, I could never afford to take even a single moment lightly.
With so many talents roaming around you on a single set, it is quite a fruitful time for you as an actor," he says.
We concur Manoj.
