Manoj Bajpayee, known for his nuanced performances in Bollywood, recently shared his thoughts on various issues during a candid conversation on Sushant Sinha’s podcast. Touching on topics like the rising divorce rate, substance abuse, and missed opportunities in his career, Bajpayee offered insights into both the industry and his personal journey.
Addressing the spike in divorce cases, Bajpayee attributed it not to Bollywood but to societal shifts towards nuclear families. He emphasized that the film industry merely reflects society, with its members being part of the same societal fabric.
While acknowledging the increasing divorce rate among actors, Bajpayee noted the industry’s open-mindedness in dealing with such issues.
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On the topic of substance abuse in Bollywood, Bajpayee dismissed the notion of a pervasive “dark side” within the industry, asserting that the actions of a few individuals shouldn’t tarnish the reputation of the entire fraternity.
Reflecting on his career, Bajpayee revealed a missed opportunity to play Chunnilal in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s “Devdas,” a role eventually portrayed by Jackie Shroff. Despite his initial desire to play Devdas, Bajpayee harbored no regrets about turning down the part, citing his steadfast commitment to his craft.
Starting from humble beginnings, Bajpayee carved his niche in the industry through perseverance and dedication. With notable roles in projects like “The Family Man” and “Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai,” he continues to captivate audiences with his versatile performances.
Having journeyed from a one-minute role in Govind Nihalani’s “Drohkaal” to starring in a slew of spy/crime thrillers, Bajpayee’s upcoming projects, including “Bhaiyya Ji,” “Despatch,” and “The Fable,” promise to showcase his talent and range as an actor.
