Nana Patekar is not only an actor; he is a farmer, a painter and a writer too. Moreover, he works on his sweet will. He doesn't act for money alone. Nana says that he has already completed the shooting of his next 'Apaharan' directed by Prakash Jha. We met him on the sets during his outdoor shoot at Satara.
Excerpts of his interview:
How did you agree to act in 'Apaharan' though you are very choosy?
I don't believe in planning in my life. If I like a role or a story, I immediately say yes to it, otherwise I say no. When Prakash Jha narrated the story and my role in 'Apaharan', I readily agreed to do it. Besides being an actor, I am a farmer, a painter and a writer too. Moreover, I get busy in shooting with a rifle too besides shooting for a film. I don't like to repeat roles. And, why should I go on acting in film after film, after all I don't owe any money to anyone. When I accepted 'Apaharan' I felt that the actor in me hasn't died yet. It's very much alive.
What's great in 'Apaharan'?
I am playing a real life character in it. I am acting the role of a political leader who has a wide empire around him. Prakash told me about this character and I found it quite strong. So, I decided not to let this golden opportunity go.
How do you compare it with the other characters you have played in films?
It's quite different. This is not a violent character though. It plays cool, but dangerous too.
What are your other movies?
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I shall direct a movie for Prakash Jha Besides; Gautam Joglekar is soon bringing his Marathi 'Pak-Pak Pakak'. Apart from it, I am acting in Raj Kumar Santoshi's 'Saamna' with Ajay Devgan again. Also, I am acting in a film of Milan Lutharia starring with John Abraham. This is more than enough for me.
How has been your journey in films during the last 25 years?
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Yes, I entered into films because of late actress Smita Patil. She got me offers of 'Gaman' and 'Aaj Ki Awaaz' after watching my performance in a Marathi drama. Since then I have been living a contented life as I have been learning something every time.
Why the industry finds it difficult to deal with you?
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Yes, it's a bit difficult. I am a person who believes in speaking on one's face, rather than behind him. Those who are not well versed with their job find it difficult to deal with me. Before accepting any movie offer, I go through its story. If it appeals to me I accept the offer. I am honest towards me. I don't believe in saying yes just to please some one.
