Acclaimed theatre and film actor Kumud Mishra of Rockstar fame was in Bhubaneswar Friday to play the lead in Hindi/ English play Dhumrapan, a fundraiser organised by Zain Foundation for the welfare of people suffering from Autism Spectrum Disorder. On the sidelines of the event, the NSD alumnus took some time off to speak to OrissaPOST.
Excerpts:
Welcome to the City of Temples Mr Mishra. Please let us know what motivated you to be a part of the Zain Foundation’s initiative?
The Zain Foundation works for people suffering from autism which is praiseworthy and we wanted to support the cause. Also, we wanted the audience of Bhubaneswar to watch a play like Dhumrapan. This is my first collaboration with the organisation and I’m very happy about this.
What message does Dhumrapan, a play which has been staged over 60 times across India and has bagged multiple awards at festivals, aim to convey?
It’s a corporate comedy that shows how staff members at corporate workplaces express their emotions in smoking areas about things like evaluations, politics, relationships, stress, and job insecurities. We have attempted to showcase people’s inner feelings on the backdrop of smoking.
There is a thriving theatre community in Bhubaneswar. Have you ever considered collaborating with local troupes or artistes?
Oh, yes. I would like to be part of more plays in Bhubaneswar and team up with local troupes if get a chance.
You have played a wide range of characters in movies. How do you prepare yourself for the challenges?
There are many emotions within human beings; we simply need to discover them and bring them outside. We attempt to bring out the positive and negative traits of people via acting.
The most challenging character you have played so far.
Picking up any particular role is difficult as each has a unique hue and leaves you with an impression.
How different is acting on stage and in a movie?
There is not much difference, you have to adapt to these different mediums. Both forms have their distinct flavours.
Finally, your thoughts on Odisha?
Many years ago, I worked in Odisha with Jhelum Paranjape, an Odissi exponent, for ballet Lilavati. That was my first work in Odisha. I enjoyed the local cuisines at that time. Acclaimed theatre artiste Robin Das, who is from Odisha, is one of my Gurus. There’s plan in place to work with him. This time I am getting very less time but I am planning to do bike tours of the state, the interior parts in particular.
PNN