'Bt cotton not for money'

Even as his colleagues endorse watches and perfumes, Nana, in his maiden appearance as brand ambassador, is endorsing a controversial agro product.

Why have you chosen this product to endorse?
I chose it because it was different. I have refused so many offers because I didn't feel like it. But in this case, I felt convinced of the product and the difference it could make to farmers. I too live on my farm most of the time, coming to Mumbai only for shootings. With this endorsement, I have reached back to my roots and feel satisfied. What does a man need but satisfaction?

There is money in it…
Yes. But I have not done this for the money. I have made so much money in cinema that I no longer need to sell myself.

Probably today, I am doing more films than when I was younger. I have no greed, no further need for investment for self. I believe in this product and so am endorsing it. Even on my farm, I don't count the money I make. That isn't my profession, and the pleasure that agriculture gives me is the product.

Bollgard is controversial. It is opposed by many who say that it will wipe out the traditional system of cotton agriculture. They also say the patent could get into the hands of foreign corporate Monsanto.

I studied the product in detail for 10 to 15 days. It has itself passed seven long years of research. I have spoken to the people who oppose it. There are so many environmentalists opposed to it. Some of them are my friends and I respect their work. But I don't believe in sticking to something just because it is traditional. If something untraditional is going to reap more social benefit, why not?

The product has proved its productivity in Brazil and America. I believe in what I have studied and learnt about the product. I tell people in the rally that if Monsanto's claims turn out false, I will myself come out against them. I think the price is high and so I have asked them to make it more affordable for the common man.

What does this unique method of endorsing a brand mean to you?
I get to meet so many people at the grassroots level. This is what I personally like. As an actor, one can draw best from people. An enriched actor is one who reads people and not learns from books and films.