Flying high with a big heist

GIPPY GREWAL IS BANKING ON SUCCESS WITH HIS NEW PUNJABI MOVIE

by ASJAD NAZIR

A REMARKABLE career has seen Gippy Grewal balance a massively successful

singing career with an equally amazing acting journey that has seen him star in a string of hit films.

The singing and acting star returns to the big screen this week with Punjabi action-comedy Daaka, which revolves around an ordinary man who plans a heist, but has a much bigger plan.

The trailer and promos for the colourful film have received a positive response in the lead up to the release.

Gippy Grewal seemed confident when Eastern Eye caught up with him to discuss his latest film Daaka, Punjabi cinema, future plans, inspirations and more.

Today, what takes the priority for you; acting or singing?

Acting and singing are equally important. It is the singing that made me whatever I am today, and acting has pushed me to another level. So, I can never choose between them.

Have you been surprised by how successful your acting career has been?

I am completely thrilled. I have never thought that one day I can be at this level.

I am blessed that audiences are appreciating and accepting my efforts.

Who has been the most memorable person you have worked with?

(Director) Baljit Singh Deo has been the most memorable person for me. He is a wonderful human being. Whenever I have tried something different he has always been with me. The tuning we have shared since Mirza-The Untold Story has made us understand each other without uttering a word. Luckily, from my music videos to movies like Manje Bistre, Ardaas Karaan, whenever we worked together, it has been magical.

How do you choose the films you do?

The most important thing is always the script. After that, the director, production and planning, everything plays an imperative role. However, for me, the content is the main hero.

Tell us about your new film Daaka and the character you play?

Daaka has a complete package of comedy, thriller and romance, which is a rare combination, especially in Punjabi movies. Talking of my character Shinda, he loves a girl Laali, but due to some circumstances, he has to plan a daaka (robbery). However, there is a lot more to it than the robbery and the movie will take some other turn, which will be interesting to watch. This character has multiple shades of humour, emotion, happiness and action.

What was the biggest challenge of playing this role?

The most challenging part was playing the masked alter ego. He is a psycho, with a mixture of humour and thrill. To strike a balance between his fear, tension and humour was challenging.

What is your favourite moment in the movie?

The moment from the trailer, the daaka scene is my favourite, especially the ‘Puspa’ dialogue.

Who are you hoping connects with this film?

We always try to make sure that entire families – audience from all age groups – can relate to it.

You must be happy how strong the Punjabi film industry is?

The Punjabi industry is going through its golden period, and the response these films are getting is like a dream. My last film Ardaas Karaan was a huge success, and I am so happy that our films have reached Bollywood.

What are your future hopes for Punjabi cinema?

The future of Punjabi cinema is very bright. For the last five to seven years, films have had huge box office collections, and some have earned over Rs 60 crore. I’m sure our films will soon enter the Rs 100-crore club.

Do you have a dream role?

I want to do hard-core romantic movies, grey shades such as Dr Dang from the movie Karma and Gabbar Singh from Sholay.

What is your master plan?

The only plan, which can lead to success in life, is hard work. Without hard work and God’s blessings, no plan can be translated to success.

What is happening on the musical front?

After Daaka, on the musical front, many projects are in the pipeline. From singles to collaborations, audiences will get a lot of music also.

You have achieved a lot; do you have any unfulfilled ambitions?

I have achieved more than I had expected. However, I’m working hard, and I firmly believe that hard work leads to new opportunities.

Today, what inspires you?

Those who have achieved success due to their hard work and dedication inspires me. When I watch the work of actors such as Aamir Khan, their error-free approach and concepts inspire me a lot. Even the dedication, energy and passion the younger generation have for their craft is something to look up to.

What are your big passions away from work?

I have no such passions; however, when I get time I like to travel, go on vacations, and spend time with family. I like listening to music, creating music, watching movies and making them.

If you could master something new, what would it be?

I will say that I am Jack of many trades, but master of none. However, I would like to be a master in cinematography, editing and everything that is connected to filmmaking.

Why should we watch your latest film?

Daaka, I can say involved a lot of hard work. After Jatt James Bond, we are coming with such a concept. I still get comments such as Jatt James Bond is one of my best works. So, this time we are getting better than the best with a twist of new flavours, and I am sure you will like it.

Why do you love cinema?

I just love cinema – from making films to watching them to even just talking about them. Cinema is my life. God forbid, if I had not been an actor or singer, one thing is for sure, I would have definitely been in this industry, even as a spot boy.

Daaka is in cinemas now