I didn’t expect overwhelming response: Devgn

I did not expect such an overwhelming response. Of course,when we were shooting for the film,we knew it would do well. We were hopeful of a good feedback.

Your character is based loosely on the life of Mumbai’s smuggler of the ’70s,Haji Mastan. Did you have to do any homework to play this role?
I can never do any homework. I have made it a habit. I just go on the sets and follow the director’s vision. And whatever comes is spontaneous. I just understood what director Milan Luthria expected out of me and performed accordingly.

The mannerisms,walk,white clothes –– all had become a status symbol then. I enjoyed wearing bell-bottom pants,platform chappals,side-locks and travelling in vintage cars,which I remember seeing as a kid of five or six years. I jelled into the character because that was the demand of the script.

You are averse to being seen with a cigarette in real life but in the film,you are constantly seen with one in your hand. Will you openly smoke a cigarette now?
(Laughs) Only if the film demands.

There have been several stories of dons over the years. How has this been different?
The gripping story was the strong point along with the performances of all the actors. As for me,I think the combination of the energy of the ’70s and today’s sensibilities worked for me.

Since the film was mired in a lot of controversy,all of you must be tensed before its release.
On the contrary,we were very clear of what we were doing. And we knew we were right. Moreover,we believed in the law and were sure that things will work in our favour.

How was it working with Milan Luthria?
I have know Milan for 18 years. We had earlier worked in Kachche Dhaage and Chori Chori and get along very well. Over the period,I have found that he has matured as a director and has even become more sensitive. Today he understands the depth of screenplay and scripting. It goes without saying that he has done a brilliant job with a film of this stature.

Being a friend and a well-wisher,did you have any say in the film?
Filmmaking is all about suggestions and ideas and it is welcome when it is among friends. It is easy to say “Let’s try this or let’s do it this way.” But ultimately it is for the director to take it or leave it as it is his vision. The final say is always his.

After this film with Kangna Ranaut,are you doing more films with her?
I found her to be an excellent actress. She is a very professional girl. We were to do Rascal together but I am not aware what is happening to it as Sanjay Dutt,the producer,is away shooting.

Shazahn Padamsee has said that she is nervous about acting opposite you in Madhur Bhandarkar’s Dil Toh Bachcha Hain Ji?
The film is a rom-com. It is funny with realistic situations and casting Shazahn with me is the demand of the script. I am not aware of her nervousness. (laughs)

What other films are keeping you busy these days?
I shall be playing a terrorist in Priyadarshan’s action film Bullet Train. This is not a remake of Keanu Reeve’s Speed as mentioned in some section of the press. Priyan’s Aakrosh will release on October 1. Golmaal 3 is due in Diwali followed by Toonpur Ka Superhero. Basically this year is hectic for me.