Veteran actor Rajesh Puri, who has to his credit 200 odd plays, several soap operas such as “Hum Log”, “Parvarish–Kuchh Khattee Kuchh Meethi” and films like “Dil” and “Amiri Garibi”, continues to be wedded to his first love – theatre. Currently he is busy with his new play “Golmaal – The Play”, a light-hearted satire dealing with the current education system and troubles that it creates for parents who wish to give their children the best education possible. The play has won audience appreciation both in Mumbai and Delhi.
What made you do this play?
For me, it was the hilarious script and, of course, Vindu (Dara Singh) and all the other cast members made me do this play. Each one is very talented and the energy that they show on the stage is just infectious for me. And moreover, I think that the message this play conveys should be told to as many people as possible.
As you have been a part of television and films, what brings you back to theatre?
Theatre is very lively. I come back to theatre to see how much of energy is still there in me to connect with my audience and spread different messages. In theatre, I seek how I can portray myself the best and engage the audience. In TV and even in movies, for that matter, you don’t get to interact with the audience while playing the character and for that one has to come to theatre. Since here, you get to know what you are capable off. And it always feels great when you connect with your audience and when you hear their appreciation, then and there.
What is the difference in acting in front of camera and live audience?
See, it’s comparatively quite easy to act for a camera because there the director tells you how to enact a particular scene; he keeps a check on the emotions that you are showing and basically you do exactly what he asks you to do. Whereas on stage, you just come and do your part and go. Some days you are exceptionally good but on others it may be bad. Here, there are no retakes. You get both, applauded and booed at the same time. And that is why I feel theatre is difficult. Every time I perform, I express a different part of me. And that is what I find best about theatre. Theatre helps me find more about myself.
How will you describe you journey so far?
I believe, nothing is served as a piece of cake to anybody. Everybody has to clear their hurdles in their own ways. Some take it up as a challenge and some just enjoy everything that is served. Nothing was easy for me. I had my share of struggle but I did come out of it. For example, initially, I was asked to get tea-coffee for the other big actors (chuckles). But these struggles are all part of one’s life.
What according to you is the key to success?
According to me, if you have talent in you, then sooner or later success will surely come your way. But one must have patience to wait for it since good things take time. And I think discipline and honesty also play a crucial part in success of any person. As the world and specially this field is very dynamic, people should be open to learn and adapt to changes and grow with their experiences. In the end, the only thing that matters is how we are as human beings and how we take that success.