We don’t take up social causes to garner applause

Irrfan Khan is one of the few Bollywood actors who have successful ventured into mainstream Hollywood movies. However the journey was not hunky dory for the ‘Jurrasic World’ star who is hailed for his sheer hard work. Before making a mark in cinema Irrfan acted in many TV serials.

He appeared in 'Chandrakantha', 'Banegi Apni Baat', 'Star Bestsellers', 'Bhanvar', etc. After a few unsuccessful movies, he struck gold in 2001 with the movie 'The Warrior' where he donned the lead role. The flick was directed by London-based Asif Kapadia and Irrfan garnered accolades for his acting prowess in the movie and he became a known face on the silver screen and from then on the actor never looked back and never ceased to enthrall the audience.

His recent flick 'Piku' along with Amitabh Bachchan and Deepika Padukone received rave reviews and he credits its success to the audience. Irrfan is now looking forward to ‘Jurassic World’ where he plays a vital character. The actor recently tied up with P&G Shiksha School in New Delhi where he shared acting tips with students.

He also enacted a few scenes from his movies and the answered queries of the enthusiastic kids. In an exclusive tete-a-tete with The Hans India Irrfan shares his journey in Hollywood. Here are excerpts from his interview.

Q: Recently you have visited P&G Shiksha school, how was the experience?

A: It was a great experience to be present at the P&G Shiksha School and to witness the difference that this cause has made to the lives of all these lovely children. For the past 11 years, P&G Shiksha is providing quality education and securing the future of millions of children all over the country.

It was an absolutely enriching experience interacting with bright young minds of tomorrow and I am sure that a star bigger than Irrfan Khan was present somewhere in that small classroom. It was a humbling experience and I would like to thank P&G Shiksha for giving me that opportunity.

Q: What is the reason behind your association with P&G Shiksha?

A: Education is a cause I deeply care about and when I was growing up; education enabled me to follow my dreams and aspirations. All the success that I have achieved in my career, I owe it to my education. It plays a very important role in moulding a child’s future and is imperative in order to secure the future of the country. In the past 11 years P&G Shiksha has built and supported 330 schools and will impact six lakh children all over the country.

Q: Many celebrities are taking up some sort of social causes. Do you think is it only a brand building exercise for tinsel town stars?

A: I believe we take up social causes not to garner applause. If we have the power to influence in some way then there’s no harm in taking it up. I don’t think it's for brand building in anyone's eyes.

Q: There is always a hype when an Indian actor works in Hollywood. Was it overwhelming for you when you acted in a few movies?

A: It is an overwhelming feeling when you get appreciated for your work be it in your own country or for Hollywood roles.

Q: How different or same is it working there. Compare the work ethics here and there?

A: According to me there are two differences. One is the quality of production and the other is the style of working.

Q: What is your role in 'Jurassic World', please throw some light on your character

A: 'Jurassic World' sees me essay a key role of a park owner. I will be seen as a man who has some firm beliefs and ideals.

Q: What are your future projects in Hollywood and Bollywood?

A: 'Inferno' will take off in two months. I am doing 'Madaari', a thriller directed by Nishikant Kamat. I am also co-producing the film. Then there is 'Talvar', produced by Vishal Bhardwaj.

By:Navin Pivhal