If a character challenges me, then I am like a bull: Manoj Bajpayee

Manoj Bajpayee says different roles pose different kinds of challenges; adds that he is lucky to have worked with directors who have given him creative freedom.

With powerful and offbeat roles in films such as Aligarh (2015) and Gangs of Wasseypur (2012), Manoj Bajpayee has showcased a gamut of emotions on screen. Ask the actor if he only likes taking up roles that are different and complex, and he says, “If the character says try me, or if it really challenges me then I am like a bull. When Aligarh was offered to me, it actually scared me. Not because I had to play a homosexual role, but because of the kind of performance it demanded.

Manoj Bajpayee says he brings his own interpretation, but with the approval of the director. (HT Photo)

If an actor doesn’t know how to give characterisation, he will never be able to give different kind of performances. Various roles pose different kind of challenge on the actor.”

He adds the only director, who has a different style of working is Neeraj Pandey. “I enjoy working with him. He wants his lines to be a certain way and he doesn’t like improvisations. For him, I have to chain myself to fit into his understanding of the character,” says Manoj.

The actor will next be seen in Sarkar 3, co-starring Amitabh Bachchan and Aiyaary alongside Sidharth Malhotra.