When The Dawn Breaks

Not having played a major role yet, ARUNODAY SINGH shows how he can be extremely promising. In a strong endeavour to Court Martial him, I witnessed that this giant man speaks with sheer politeness. Despite being bombarded with various scenarios, he articulately handled ruthless questions, and safeguarded himself when necessary. Unwind as he speaks of Bollywood and his quest for success in terms of films and fame.

- Rinaldo D'Souza

You’ve been around for a few films but have mostly worked with actors that have already made an impact in the industry. Does that make it difficult for you to cope?

I am a big bad man and not afraid of their impact, that’s nothing to do with me. Their impact and what their fans think and how many fans they have and all the rest of it don’t come on set. When one is on set, they are all equal, and you’re a part of this particular family working on a temporary thing. So does it matter? Not at all. If these things affect you, you’re not an actor. You can’t be intimidated or star-struck by anybody.

Ashutosh Gowariker had mind- blowing responses for Lagaan and Jodha Akbar. Did you think Mohenjo Daro would be able to live up to those standards, when you signed on? The trailer didn’t create that buzz.

Firstly, Ashutosh Gowariker is probably the most meticulous and the most patient man I’ve ever worked with. He’s very intelligent. He does have a certain pedigree with the kind of films he makes and the responses that he gets. There is always that kind of hope when you work with someone whose work is celebrated. So for his sake, I really hope it does. Because you know, we actors come, we work, and we leave.

Whereas directors carry their work always and it stays with them. It’s like their baby. From what I saw, and being a part of it, I felt it was a very special film. As long as people accept it for what it is. I am a big fan of fantasy and historical fantasies. I usually go by instinct. As for the trailers, etc., that is beyond my ability to understand. I never figure how the marketing and all of it works. I’ve seen great films with terrible trailers, and great trailers with absurd films. At my point, there’s no compulsion of waiting for ideal launches and stuff. If I find a role that tickles my fancy, I go with it.