‘Manoj Bajpayee and I would have atta only for two rotis, would eat one each’: Anubhav Sinha on their struggle, friendship

“Actors are in need of that one opportunity to showcase their talent. But are you preparing yourself for it?” asked Anubhav, who went on to explain that an actor can never truly become a good one if they don’t have the ability to think rationally. “If you haven’t read poems or know your history or understand the politics around you, then you can’t call yourself a good actor. You have to be educated.”

Going on to point out this education doesn’t mean the bookish ones or degree certificates, Anubhav said that it is important to be educated in the school of life. “You have to understand the country, life, society. Then there is the necessity of honing your craft. Actors spend 85-90 percent of their time in search of the opportunity. Make that 15-20 percent, and instead, spend the rest to understand your craft, and improve it. This would prepare you for the moment you get the opportunity. Any good actor worth their salt is very intelligent and aware,” asserted Anubhav, who spoke about how he can’t now do a film without the likes of Manoj Pahwa and Kumud Mishra. “I feel a sense of insecurity if they are not there in my film.”

Another name that he considers to be an important part of his life but unfortunately hasn’t yet worked with is Manoj Bajpayee. Reminiscing about the 35-year journey with the ace actor, Anubhav said, “I have known him since 1989, from the time when we had atta just for 2 rotis, and we used to share one each. Recently, he called me after watching IC 814, and spoke about it with so much happiness. He was so proud of me that he called once in the night, expressed his joy, called me back the next morning, and shared his happiness all over again.” 

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Expressing a mutual admiration, Anubhav shared that he was not just a friend but a fan of Manoj too. “When I see any good work he does, I feel very proud that I know him. He is the kind of an actor you’d want to work with in every film,” said Anubhav, who went on to share that they’ve never worked together despite the long-standing friendship. “He doesn’t do my films. I know his logic, and I appreciate it too. I offered him films, and in fact, I asked him for Bheed, but it just didn’t happen.”