Acting virtuosos on Bollywood’s global standing

Anupam Kher, Nawazuddin Siddiqui say the industry is still in its nascent phase

NEW DELHI: As the Bollywood industry emerges to the fore, it is often gauged against Hollywood. Although the quality of films being churned out of Bollywood has improved dramatically, actors Anupam Kher and Nawazuddin Siddiqui feel that the comparison between the two industries is ‘unfair’, as Kher put it.

“I don’t see the need to compare what we make at home to what is made abroad. I think we are a young country and we have many other important issues to take care of rather than cinema. It is unfair,” said Kher, a notable film actor and TV talk show host.



Kher also sang praises of Bollywood superstars, such as Shahrukh Khan and Akshay Kumar while taking a jibe at Hollywood actors. “Shahrukh and Akshay can do what Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt do in a movie, but I doubt that Pitt and Cruise can depict the trademark style of Shahrukh,” he commented.

Siddiqui, who has proved his mettle with films, such as The Lunch Box, Kahaani and Miss Lovely spoke about the importance of and need to explore new avenues and arenas in Bollywood. “We have so many stories to tell and we can’t put such topics in a corner. We should try out new subjects,” said the actor, who rose to fame with his performance in Gangs of Wasseypur.

He added, “Cinema is in its comfort zone right now. Films are made with a formula comprising some songs, love scenes and emotional scenes. When we go to international festivals, people come to us and dance, as they think Bollywood is all about dancing. People don’t know us as a country.”



Kher, who has done multiple international projects, including the Academy Award-nominated Silver Linings Playbook, expressed his delight at the opportunity to work in crossover projects and the responsibility that comes with it. “As an actor, I feel happy if I get a Hollywood film and it does well. When I am working on an international project, I am representing India and feel more responsible. The thing that attracts me about them is their professionalism. They are so well prepared,” he said. 

Published in The Express Tribune, November 14^th, 2014.

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