Jigar Shah
Aamir Khan is playing second fiddle to you in Dhobi Ghat. How does it feel?
Good question! I didn’t realise it while we were filming. I have more screen space than most of the cast and I’m really happy that I was given this opportunity.
Were you surprised that you were offered a role of a dhobi?
I was surprised but the script was really good. Every newcomer has a vision that his launch should either be in a love story or a college story. I don’t think that way.
You began with Imran Khan in Jaane Tu … He has done five films while Dhobi Ghat is just your second film. Are you following a strategy?
Not really. Just looking out for a good script and good people… quality over quantity.
Were you intimidated by Aamir?
No, I was not intimidated, but it was a very good platform. However, you can’t take things for granted, in fact one has to work harder. I don’t think I’ve got my ticket to success, yet. Aamir bhai is like my brother, father, guide, philosopher.
Do you act alongside him in the film?
I had a couple of scenes with him, he is such an intense actor that it left me hungry for more. I wanted more scenes with him, may be in future I’ll get lucky.
A few days back, you almost froze on stage during the Aarakshan press conference. But at the Dhobi Ghat event you appeared more confident.
This is the Aamir Khan effect. I was briefed for the Aarakshan press conference and I thought I was ready to speak. But I was briefed a bit too much and became confused. Besides, I spoke to Amitji for the first time and was really nervous, kya bolun kya nahin bolun.
How do you respond to your newfound stardom?
The word star is a perception; we are as normal as anyone else. Acting is a profession for us, people make us into stars. I don’t want to think along those lines, I just want to keep doing my work, I am very passionate about it.