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EXCLUSIVE: I've done a film with Amitabh Bachchan; I'm not bothered about what happens tomorrow - Angad Bedi on Dear Zindagi facing MNS threats
Former cricket legend Bishan Singh Bedi's son Angad Bedi is the new-age ambassador of male chauvinists. Winning accolades for his performance in Shoojit Sircar's courtroom drama Pink, the 33-year old is currently basking in the success of his recent release. In a tete-a-tete with Pinkvilla.com, Angad spoke about his take on feminism, how he adores Amitabh Bachchan and his upcoming next, Dear Zindagi opposite SRK-Alia.
Your character Rajveer Singh (in Pink) was hated with much gusto, which in itself is a compliment. Are you keen to be the new-age villain?
As long as the role is extremely powerful, I am keen to do that. The space of being on the edge, the slightly off-centered roles are brilliant. I want that audience of 19-25. They are young and they like to see characters who are unapologetic, not pertaining anything too negative or positive. Even positive roles can be off-centre. I think I have a diversified self to me. From Faltu to Pink, my range has been different and I want makers to see that I can deliver up to their expectations. Shoojit da's films are a very slice of life, there's no hero or villain. Rajveer's character was a layered one. If you put a good guy in a complicated situation where his alter ego can come out. With good exists bad!
So we can say that 'Pink is the new black'?
Absolutely! Pink is a strong word. It has a personality, courage, conviction, it has a standing for what you feel is right.
The film is a big stamp on feminism- and advocates about the same. Tell us about the women who inspires you the most!
I come from a strict upbringing. My mother and my sister are the women who inspire me. We need to understand that it's the women who have won our nation medals in Olympics. Women have to outshine in their own space and that is required. A woman is strong emotionally as well as is capable of bearing a child. Just imagine the strength they possess! Pink is not a women-centric but youth-centric films.
In Bollywood, its Jaya Bachchan, Vidya Balan and Alia Batt who inspire me the most. They have held on their own, balancing their home and work together. An expression of a woman is far better than a man. They express themselves so beautifully. It is easier said than done; we have a different set of rules regulations for our sisters, girlfriends and wives telling them what to wear, how to sit etc. Let women be the way they are. When you give woman respect, you will gain the same respect. After all, it's a mutual decision for a man-woman to get together. Without her permission, he cannot touch her, and if he does so, it is not mutual consent.
You are an ardent Amitabh Bachchan's fan. From sharing screen space with him to film's promotions- which is your memorable moment with him?
Any woman who will come in front of Mr. Bachchan, he will stand first and greet the lady. He will go out of his way to take care of everyone. He is a beautiful father figure to have. You can discuss anything under the sun with him. He is today's youth. He has the ability to hold a conversation with every age group, from 8-year-old to 90-year-old. He wants to educate himself on what your thoughts are. He has been in the industry for 45 years and his discipline, dedication, his hardworking nature is commendable. I cannot forget the instance how each time he used to wait for each one us and the three ladies, before entering into the lift. Once we all used to step in, only then he entered. Despite his age and stature, he first took care of our well-being than the other way around. He makes you feel so wanted.
Also, I want to do another film with Mr. Bachchan where I can play his son, a full-fledged role with him! It is because of Big B that I am here. People aim for National award etc, but my biggest award was when Mr.Bachchan sat down with my father (Bishan Singh Bedi) in New Delhi and watched Pink.
After Big B, you are teaming up with SRK, another industry biggie. How was your experience working with Shah Rukh? What's your role in Dear Zindagi?
I can't talk about that film as the producers have not allowed me to speak on that. I didn't have the opportunity to work with him in Dear Zindagi. Hopefully, in near future.
Your father was a cricketer, but you picked up acting? Don't you regret, not being the quintessential star kid?
I am glad that I'm not the quintessential star kid. I don't want that pressure of a star kid tag and being compared to my father. I have no comparison in the film industry and whatever I will do will be on my own merit. I think it's slightly unfortunate for star kids as it's not easy for them. I am very glad I'm not a film industry kid.
How was it working with Alia Bhatt in Dear Zindagi?
Alia is a fab actor. She expresses a lot with her eyes. She is a very spontaneous actor and carries a film on her own shoulders, whether it was Highway or Dear Zindagi. I am yet to see an actor like her. She has such an expressive face, her personality is so vibrant! You will see this when you will watch Dear Zindagi.
Currently, the MNS controversy is doing the rounds. Your film Dear Zindagi is also under the scanner because it stars Pakistani singer/actor Ali Zafar. Do you think it is a right move to ban the Pakistani artistes?
We artistes have one voice and that is creativity. You have to understand it is a global phenomenon. Even our Indian films are global. Whoever is right for the part, should play that part - that is the basic thumb rule. People who bag the part, deserve the part. It has nothing to do with any nationality. A Naseeruddin Shah or Om Puri have worked overseas in Hollywood films, and then look at Priyanka Chopra! Quantico1, 2... she is a global phenomenon. I would love to go global someday if someone offers me a role.
But aren't you worried that your film (Dear Zindagi) can suffer? The way the things are going and getting murky. For eg: Zindagi channel has pulled down the Pakistani shows it airs...It has gone to that extent now.
Do you really know what I feel? I feel, I have done a film with Mr. Amitabh Bachchan and I am not worried at all! I am not bothered about what happens tomorrow. For me, my biggest dream was my father to be proud of my work, the second was to work with Mr. Bachchan and third was that my father and he watched my film together. I have nothing to prove to anybody.
You posted a picture of Nora Fatehi on your Instagram account, wishing her luck for her Jhalak debut. Nora said it a portal that she is indeed "seeing" Angad, but they are "not dating" and taking things slow. So what is your relationship status?
I don't want anything to take away the focus from my film Pink, which is doing exceptionally well. Currently, I am trying to sign my next film. Coming to the question, she is also a part of my friend circle. We all hang out together. She is doing exceptionally well on her show - Jhalak Dikkhla Jaa - so I really wish her well. I hope she wins more hearts and stays and portrays here talent. You should understand that since you are a part of an industry which is celebrated, the focus will be on you. It's okay. Accept it. Still, your work should shine out. There is no right or wrong here. You need to accept it that media only makes you celebrated and media should give you the respect if you want to keep your personal life 'personal'. But all this co-exists.
Everyone is eagerly waiting for the trailer of Dear Zindagi! When is it coming out?
For that, you will have to ask Gauri Shinde or the producers of the film. I am also waiting to see ki kya banta hai yaar! I know it will be a beautiful film. To be associated with Alia, Gauri, Red Chillies and Dharma, is a great feeling!
Ankita Bhalla is a Bollywood aficionado with a Master’s in English Journalism from the Indian Institute of
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