Manoj Bajpayee Reflects on a Remarkable Year with Diverse Roles and Impactful Films
In 2023, Manoj Bajpayee not only graced the silver screen with his outstanding performances but also made a mark in the history of Indian cinema. With three successful movies – Gulmohar, Sirf Ek Banda, and Joram – the actor not only earned critical acclaim but also resonated with audiences worldwide. The year, filled with awards and honours, holds a special place for Bajpayee, marking the culmination of his pre-pandemic commitments.
Reflecting on his triumphant year, Bajpayee emphasises the diversity of roles he portrayed. From a character in the privileged class in Gulmohar to a middle-class individual in Sirf Ek Banda and finally a representation of the oppressed class in Joram, the actor views this range as a significant achievement. “As an actor, it was satisfying to show that every human (from every class) is conflicted and vulnerable and that everyone is going through their own challenges,” he remarks, highlighting the universal identification with his characters.
For Bajpayee, the takeaway from these roles is not about carrying something from the characters but the education he gains during the process of shaping them. “My takeaway is the education that I get during the making of those characters,” he explains. Whether it’s through conversations with directors or in-depth research, each role contributes to his understanding of various aspects of human experiences. Working on Joram, for instance, provided insights into the lives of people on the edges, the impacts of displacement, and the cascading effects of minor offences.
The recognition received by all his films at various film festivals adds an extra layer of gratification for Bajpayee. “In the past, my films have travelled to film festivals and received awards in a variety of categories. It feels good to be recognized,” he acknowledges. Despite the challenges of limited theatrical releases, Bajpayee emphasises the importance of showcasing films like Joram, which tackles significant societal issues. He notes the changing landscape of content consumption post-pandemic, where audiences, amidst commercial potboilers, appreciate and champion films with substance.
One film that stands out for Bajpayee is Joram, which he believes can influence systemic change. In a landscape dominated by commercial potboilers, Joram’s success, fueled by audience appreciation and endorsements, signifies a positive shift. Bajpayee expresses optimism about the film’s impact, stating, “I am not hopeful; I am certain,” suggesting that Joram’s contribution will be acknowledged in the future.
Looking ahead, Bajpayee remains committed to creating films that cater to diverse audience preferences. While recognizing the popularity of certain film genres, he emphasises the importance of continuing to release films like Joram in theatres. Balancing commercial appeal with meaningful narratives, the actor-producer envisions a future where impactful films find their space alongside mainstream entertainment. “We should do it practically with limited screens and use word of mouth to publicise it,” he concludes, emphasising the need for a thoughtful and strategic approach to ensure the success of socially relevant cinema.
