Neil Bhoopalam: I don’t think people should worry about nepotism

During a live session on The Indian Express Facebook page, Neil Bhoopalam was asked if the digital platform was more inclusive than Bollywood, which is often titled in the favour of star kids, he said. “Every industry will always bring its own people. So, I don’t think people should worry about nepotism. If you are a famous actor, producer or director, and someone in your family or among your close ones wants to get into the industry, it’s your duty to try and make it as accessible as possible.”

The actor added, “At the same time, that’s not the only way people work here. There are tests. There are many more outsiders, such as myself, who love performing and it’s sort of a symbiotic relationship. You need them, they need you. The audience needs you and you need the audience. You cannot have one without the other.”

The actor, who has recently starred in Voot Select’s The Raikar Case, also revealed why he is selective about his work that is spread across mediums.

“I like to balance out my work, my life, my children and my study time. I never fear I will be left behind. In fact, I am really grateful and fortunate wondering how I am still getting work most of the time. It’s kind of sweet, but work-life balance is very important. I am glad I don’t have a 9-5 job. So, when I have a project, I work. When I am chilling, I am chilling. And if people have 9-5 jobs, it should be divided into eight hours – for work, sleep and rest/other activities. Also, I don’t believe in competition,” Neil Bhoopalam said.

When asked if he believed he got enough opportunities on the big screen, Neil said being a performer on various platforms makes him bother less about where his talent is seen.

“I am happy that the film industry has given me many opportunities. I would like more opportunities. But I am a performing artiste. I am an actor by trade. Whether I am doing street theatre, stage, films, television or web, for me everything is performance.”

Talking about the impact the coronavirus pandemic will have on actors’ lifestyle and behaviour, Neil Bhoopalam said if social distancing continues for long, artistes might perform scenes for audience from their homes.

“Yes. That is what I think is going to happen. All the literature that has ever existed will find its way into things. For instance, let’s say for the next three years nothing changes. Most of the practising artistes will deliver scenes for you or deliver soliloquy or you could have play readings. I believe radio will pick up and so will podcast.”

Also read: This is not a good time to write: Swanand Kirkire

As a fan asked him for book recommendations during the lockdown, Neil Bhoopalam replied, “I have been reading Godfather in the morning. I read Sapiens before going to bed. Also, I just finished reading War of Art. I am also reading Jay Z’s autobiography Decoded.”