“A good body is no substitute for good acting”

Sanjay Suri’s maiden film Pyar Mein Kabhie Kabhie was an average success at the box office, but teeny boppers loved him in it. His second one, Tera Jadoo Chal Gaya with Bachchan Jr. also did just about okay but people did notice him. That, in fact, has been the case with most of his work on screen including commercials and the latest music video for Gulzar’s Sunset Point. Now, this boy with the soft romantic looks is on the verge of his third release Daman where he has a challenging role...

To begin with, tell us a little about yourself?
I hail from Kashmir. After the terrorists lay siege on Jammu and Kashmir, my family migrated to Delhi. I joined an ad agency but as my heart was set on joining films I wanted to make my way to Mumbai, the land of dreams. So, I started modelling and accepted all such work that would get me noticed. Commercials like ITC hotels, Vimal, Ruff and Tuff gave me enough mileage and eventually I found myself in Mumbai doing a travel show for Sony.

So what is living in Mumbai like?
I am not a city person. I am the outdoor type. I hate the environmental deterioration of this city. Human life is very cheap in big cities. But the flip side is opportunities are a plenty. Today I shuttle bet-ween Delhi and Mumbai and am happy at this point.

What was it like working for your first film with all inexperienced people, including the director?
Initially, I was a bit sceptical but when I met the director I was convinced of his potential and the energy that he exuded was enough to motivate me. So, I agreed to do the film. The making of the film was a great experience and I thoroughly enjoyed myself.

How did you find working with Abhishek Bachchan in Tera Jadoo Chal Gaya?
He is easy to interact and makes others comfortable. The best thing about him is that he never made others feel he is a Bachchan. In fact, I feel that the new generation of actors is more professional in its conduct. They come on time, work within definite budgets and stick to definite schedules.

Why are you doing music videos when you are already having films?
I always wanted to work with Gulzar saab, and it didn’t matter whether it was for a video or a film. So when the call came from his office I immediately agreed. Sunset point is definitely different from other albums. I do not want to do just another bhangra pop. But if something good comes my way, why not?

What does romance mean to you?
Romance to me means a smile and a light in your heart. I am a very intense sort of person who gives 100 per cent to a relationship. Right now, I am single and happy. There is no time for dating.

You have just completed Kalpana Lajmi’s Daman. Tell us about your role.
If in the beginning of your career you are approached by a film maker called Kalpana Lajmi it is a great feeling. She has the knack of extracting the best from her artistes because she knows what she wants. She is a hard taskmaster but it is fun working with her. It was lovely working with a bound script. As for my role, it is a very well defined character. Raveena is my sister-in-law. She is married to my brother (Sayyaji Shinde) who is a sexual sadist. I am the opposite of what he is, a thorough gentleman. I get along very well with Raveena and then there is the inevitable growing attraction. It was a role I enjoyed doing and Raveena who is my senior was good to work with. She made me feel comfortable and completely at ease.

In this age of hunky heroes with bulging biceps where does a hero like Sanjay fit in?
According to me, it is not important for an actor to have a good body. You can show a lot of strength through your eyes. Say like Ajay Devgan. He does not need biceps to sell. Unfortunately, nobody talks of acting these days. Yes, I agree that visually a good body helps but it is no substitute for good acting. I am into fitness but not body building.

What is your dream role?
My ideal role is that of Godfather (played by Marlon Brando). This is a larger than life role. I like doing roles with shades of grey. But I get roles with just one colour, white.

Which are your forthcoming films?
I am doing Meghna Gulzar’s Filhaal with Tabu which is one of my most memorable films amongst some other untitled projects, but let me add that my dream of working with Kajol is still unfulfilled and I am awaiting the day when I am signed opposite her.

<<<Jahnavi Pal