Over the years, Manoj Bajpayee has carved a reputation for taking on diverse roles and compelling stories that defy the ordinary. Although his body of work encompasses commercial blockbusters, OTT platforms, and indie productions, he admits that his true passion lies in projects that push his creative limits. In a recent interview, the actor opened up about how his choices have evolved over time and why he continues to gravitate towards independent and middle-of-the-road cinema, despite the big-budget offers that keep coming.
What drive? Manoj: Bajpayee’s film selections
In a candid conversation with Hindustan Times, Manoj opened up about what drives his film choices and it turns out, it all comes down to personal fulfillment. When asked if his reliance on independent cinema was a deliberate move, the actor did not hesitate. “Actually, if I tell you that, you will not believe it, mera mann lagta hai,” he said, revealing that the real excitement for him is to leave even his closest friends stunned. “I really enjoy my performance when I do something that even those around me wonder, like ‘Is this Maoj Bajpayee?’ It’s a kick,” he shared. That rush to shock people, he explained, was the force that drew him away from the mainstream. “So for that kick, I do middle-of-the-road cinema or independent cinema,” added Bajpayee.
Manoj Bajpayee admits that the luxury of big budget films is real
Bajpayee also does not shy away from acknowledging the lure of big-budget productions, admitting that such offers are always on his plate. “Mere paas mein big budget film bahut aati hain,” he said. With a touch of humor, he paints a fairly comfortable picture of what it’s like to work on a mainstream project – a far cry from the grind of performance-heavy indie films. “Aapko jaana hai. Badhiya si van mein baithoonga. Acchi-acchi cheez order karoonga. Kya stress lene ki zaroorat nahi hai?” (You have to go. I’ll sit in a nice place and order some big things. No need to stress, right?) He joked, mocking the rather relaxed atmosphere that big productions can sometimes offer. He even described the stretch of 40 or 50 days in some commercial ventures – even though he couldn’t add to the picnic.project, treating work casually is not something he allows himself to do.
Manoj Bajpayee says hard work is non-negotiable
The actor made it clear that he never compromises on hard work, no matter how big or small the film is. “No, of course, I will work hard. Jab shot aayega toh mehnat karoonga hi. Mehnat karna mere DNA mein hai,” (No, of course, I will work hard. When the opportunity comes, I will give it my all. Giving it my all is in my DNA) he said. However, the actor also honestly opened up about feeling the strain of years spent in intense and difficult roles. “The temptation is happening because I’ve invested so much in these films that I’m a little tired of age and intensity,” he admits, giving a rare and honest look at the fatigue that comes with a deeply accomplished career.
Manoj Bajpayee shines in: Governor:
Bajpayee is currently winning hearts for his work in Governor, a low-budget independent film directed by Chinmay D. Mandlekar. Released in select theaters across India, the film features him in the role of S. Venkitaramanan, who serves as the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India. Set against the backdrop of India’s financial turmoil in the early 1990s, the story sheds light on the pivotal role Venkitaramanan played in one of the most critical chapters of the country’s economic journey.