With powerful portrayals in films such as ‘Gulaal’ and ‘Gangs of Wasseypur’, Piyush Mishra has retained a space for himself in the ever-changing film industry. The artiste of many trades — theatre director, actor, lyricist and singer counting among his fortes — spoke candidly with Monalisa Patsani of Orissa POST about life and work. Excerpts from the interview:
In the Eighties, you worked in the iconic documentary ‘Bharat Ek Khoj’ for Doordarshan. How has television transformed since?
Earlier only a few television channels existed and they gave greater importance to content. But now television is filled with garbage. More channels should have worked as a boon and should have improved content, but things have gone the other way.
What can be done to improve quality of content?
Nothing can be done as there is an unhealthy competition among channels to produce more serials and earn more. The TRP craze will never let television grow.
What changes have you undergone as an actor over the years since ‘Bharat Ek Khoj’?
Plenty of positive changes have come in me over the years.
What do you look for in choosing a role? What kind of roles do you love playing?
I read the script carefully and analyse the importance of the character. I don’t go for any specific choice but generally portray a character I like.
If you were required to choose between films and theatre, which medium would you choose, and why?
Films, because there is more money and it ultimately helps one run his home.
If you are offered a role of your liking in a play, will you take it?
Not unless the pay is good. The truth is, there is no money in theatre. Many say theatre connects you with audiences live, which is good and different. ‘Bhai live connection se kab tak chalega’, we need money to run our home and family.
What is your take on the ‘Udta Punjab’ controversy?
It was unnecessary. From suggesting 89 cuts the Censor Board finally came down to one cut. It suggests that they were wrong in the first place. It was unethical as the film concerns a burning issue affecting youngsters of Punjab. What is the harm in showing the truth?
I have written such lyrics and sung songs that talked about certain issues that people say were “fidgety” compositions, I often do that but yes doing complete films on such issues brings problems for its maker.
You are an actor, script and dialogue writer, composer, singer and poet. How do you manage all that together?
It is not a rocket science. It is not that I am perennially busy and can’t take time out for myself. I manage my work, spend time with children and do every other thing. Those who say they don’t get time are actually lying.
Are you formally trained in music?
No. But I used to sing from my childhood. I used to listen to lots of songs and gradually decided to sing. I like singing and whenever I get an opportunity I sing.
You recently released your poetry collection ‘Kuch Ishq Kiya Kuch Kaam Kiya’. Are you writing anything now and when is it to be launched?
I am writing a novel. I am happy that people are appreciating my poems.
When is your next movie releasing?
There are two or three movies that I hope will be released by the end of this year. It is easy to make films but very difficult to get them released. Several films get stuck on various accounts.
Is this your first trip to the state? What do you like about the state and Bhubaneswar?
This is my first visit to the state. But I hardly got to see anything here. I have heard much about Orissa, but I am sad I couldn’t see much of the state. I hope to return and go around sometime.
