Imran in Kolkata: When mama's boy visits papa's city 13 Oct 2008 | 241 Views | admin
On Tuesday, the latest Bollywood heartthrob Imran Khan made a quick trip to the city, to inaugurate INOX Swabhumi and promote his new film Kidnap. ILK brings you the unedited version of Imran's chit-chat with the press.
How does it feel to be back in papa’s city Kolkata?
It feels great. This happens to be my grandfather’s land. So, it's a lovely feeling to be here to launch my film. Although I don't know Bengali, I love the people of Bengal.
Is this your first visit to Kolkata?
(Smiles) No, this is my second visit to the city. The last time I visited Kolkata was to promote mamu’s (Aamir Khan) film Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak. I was a kid then. Now, here I’m again – this time, to promote my own film Kidnap. So, it's a nostalgic feeling.
How easy or, difficult was it for you to be in the shoes of Kabir, which is a pole apart from the character of Jai of Jaane Tu...?
Well, the character of Jai was a familiar one. I could often relate to it. But in Kidnap, the character of Kabir was a lot tougher and difficult to portray. I had to take regular lessons from Sanjay Gadhvi to develop my character.
How was the experience while shooting for Kidnap?
It has been a mixed-bag experience for us. I could learn a lot from Baba (Sanjay Dutt). When Baba was sent to jail, we were apprehensive about the future of the film. But gradually things became normal. Baba was released and again we started off with the shooting.
Sanjay Gadhvi believes that your face is as interesting as Marlon Brando's (‘After watching Brando's On the Water Front, I thought Imran looks very like Brando’, says Gadhvi). How would you react to this compliment?
(Smiles) Oh, I never knew this. It feels great, to be compared with such a great actor like Brando.
Your take on Sanjay Dutt?
Baba (Dutt) is a sweetheart. I was a bit nervous in the beginning because of his angry and macho image. But soon I felt very attracted towards his humble nature and great personality. I learnt a lot from him while shooting for Kidnap.
Your take on Bengali cinema?
Bengali filmmakers are doing a great job. They produce more experimental stuff than their Bollywood counterparts. I would love to work in Bengali film some day.
Why do you call yourself a reluctant actor?
(Smiles) I'm an actor by chance. Actually, I wanted to be a director, for which I attended a film school. But now I'm an actor!
Your secret wish?
Some day, I would definitely direct a film. But I don't know when that will happen.
Your take on Minissha Lamba?
Minissha and I go on well. We understand each other. It was fun working with her.
What kind of cinema interests you?
As an audience, I like watching thrillers.
Who is your inspiration?
I've always admired Aamir and Hrithik. But, when it comes to acting, Abbas Tyrewala (director of Jaane Tu...) inspired me a lot.
What about Delhi Belly?
Delhi Belly is my new film, which is being produced by Aamir. Abhinav Deo will be directing the movie. It's a comedy, with a difference. People have a wrong notion that it's a sex comedy, but I want to make it clear that it’s not so. And Aamir is not acting in it. He's the producer.
Is Imran Khan a fun-loving guy?
I'm not much of a fun-loving guy. I'm uptight.
Your next project?
We just finished shooting for Soham Shah's Luck, my next film.
"As actors, we all want our audience to like our work; so even if you ask me this question after five years I will say yes I want to work harder and harder to be loved by my audience."
~ Imran Khan
