What is the reason for a long break from the world of cinema?
The break was unavoidable. The roles that I was offered did not excite me. I like to be sure about my roles so I did not want to take up anything insignificant.

What prompted you to take up Maruti Mera Dosst?
I was involved with this film right from the inception of the story. The film is really close to my heart and I wanted to be a part of it because I could relate to the subject.

What appealed to you the most about your role?
Maruti Mera Dosst is a feel-good film and I instantly liked my role. I play a widower who remarries because of his daughter. The character that I play is very sombre and idealistic and believes strongly in his principles and values.

What were the kind of preparations you did?
I didn’t have to do too many preparations as I was present for each reading. I was working on the film from the first draft to the final one. It was beyond just acting in the film for me.

You did films like Tere Mere Sapne and Aamdani Aathani Kharchaa Rupaiyaa. Why aren’t you trying your hand at comedy again?
I would like to do everything possible and I don’t want to be trapped in a certain image. I am quite open to doing any kind of role as long as it is exciting. Be it a comedy or a role with negative shades, if it is interesting I will do it. I want to be like Aamir Khan and respect the way he has handled his career.

You are a classically-trained singer. Is the Maruti Mera Dosst number that you have sung also in that mould?
Yes, I am classically-trained, but I haven’t been able to rehearse and practice for quite some time now. I did record for a song for the film on the music director’s insistence. But it wasn’t pre-decided or anything. He heard me humming a song and forced me to sing.

Do you consider yourself fortunate enough to have worked with Tabu, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Preity Zinta right at the start of your career?
Definitely! At that time, all of us were starting our careers simultaneously. I have high regard for all of them. They are all wonderful and I admire their body of work. Today, they are all established actors and persons of substance. I am really happy for all of them.

Do you think Bollywood is evolving with new-age films?
Our film industry has always been in a stage of evolution. Bollywood has made landmark films consistently, so one cannot really say that a particular period has been of great change. I would say that each era’s films reflect our choice as an audience. The only change is that actors do not get typecast anymore.

What are the kinds of characters that you would like to essay?
That is one question I have never been able to answer. It is difficult to pre-determine what I would like to do. When I did Maachis, I never thought it would become such a huge hit. I am in talks with a few filmmakers and will make an announcement soon. I am going to take my time to pick and choose roles.