From Sultan with Salman to Sarkar with Amitbah, Amit Sadh has truly hit the big time

By Asjad Nazir

RISING Bollywood star Amit Sadh has shown off his impressive acting range in a variety of projects.

The performer will next be seen playing a key role opposite Amitabh Bachchan in explosive gangster sequel Sarkar 3, which releases on May 12. I caught up with the in-demand actor to talk about the film, cinema and more...

What kind of projects are you being drawn towards today?

I want to tell stories close to my heart. Stories that will inspire, move and teach the viewer something.

How did you feel when you were asked to be in the Sarkar 3 cast?

It was a surreal moment to be cast in a huge franchise and to play the character I do. Being in the same frame as Bachchan sir was unreal.

Was it easy to jump into an existing franchise?

It was a big task that required hard work, something I don’t shy away from. There was a huge expectation too, but I was up for the challenge. My seniors made it easy for me. They were so welcoming and taught me so much, which I have to thank them for.

Did you feel nervous about being in a movie with Bollywood’s greatest ever star Amitabh Bachchan?

It was a little nerve-racking at first but Bachchan sir made me feel at ease. He is a lovely person and helped me a lot. He is just an incredible person who is so loving, caring and really takes care of you.

Being in his presence is something that I will never forget. His dedication and passion for his art is incredible. If I could just reach 10 per cent of what he does, then I’ll be a happy man.

Tell us about the story and character that you play?

There isn’t much I can say at the moment without getting fired! But he comes into the family and is a very strong character.

Is it fair to say your character is slightly crazy?

(Laughs) Everyone’s a little crazy!

What is your favourite moment in Sarkar 3?

I can’t say specifics about the movie itself. But during shooting I had a scene in a corridor with Bachchan sir. He did his shot then the director moved onto my shot. Now usually the other actor would go chill and someone would feed you lines. Not with Bachchan sir. He squeezed himself next to the cameraman in a tight hallway and fed me lines. This shows you how caring and how much love this man has for his art.

How does Ram Gopal Varma compare to other directors that you have worked with?

He’s an incredible person and director. He’s become a mentor to me and is exactly the kind of director I needed at this point in my career. He helped me take my craft to the next level. I am forever grateful!

Do you like watching gangster films yourself?

I really love gangster movies. I grew up watching the American greats like the Godfather trilogy, Casino, The Untouchables and Scarface. And now to be in one, I feel so very blessed.

What other films do you have on the way?

Yaara, Raagdesh, my new Amazon series Breathe, and Gold, which will be out in 2018.

What would your dream acting role be?

To play Arjun in Mahabharta!

A lot of biopics are being made. If you could play a real person from history, who would it be?

Marlon Brando. He was an incredible human being, and after reading and studying him, I would like to think we are very similar in terms of outlook on life.

How do you approach playing a character?

I usually read the script to start with; if it moves me in any way, then I’m usually drawn to the project. I then research the character; the way he moves, talks, what drives him and what he’s about! Then I research the time period, writer, and anything else to do with the script. Then I work on becoming the character, through workshops, training and exercises.

Today what inspires you?

People! From a street seller selling veg to feed his family to a cab driver, a shop assistant, my friends and family. Everyone and everything will inspire you if you just give people/things time. Just open your eyes and heart, and you’ll find inspiration in everything.

You have done a range of genres as an actor, but what is your favourite so far?

I don’t have a favourite genre, but I love playing real day-to-day people who are getting on with life. People who have a cause and work towards it day in, day out.

If you could learn anything new, what would it be?

Just be able to connect with everyone I meet. To be able to touch, inspire and help.

What has been the most memorable encounter that you have had

on your cinematic journey?

Working with Salman (Khan) sir!

Why do you love cinema?

It helps you escape to a fantasy world where you can connect with something/someone for a few hours. It teaches, touches and motivates people.

Why should we watch Sarkar 3?

It’s a fantastic movie with a great cast. I can’t say much, but if we go off how good the first two were, I think you guys are in for a treat. (Laughs) Also, I’m in it.

Sarkar 3 is in cinemas on May 12