Of cultures, and chemistry
In the last ten years, I have seen innumerable ups and downs. Many of my films have been hits while others have flopped. Recognition, reviews and admiration have come my way. I think I can say that I have seen it all.
In the beginning, I found fame very exciting. But now, nothing makes any difference. Nothing brings me down. Nothing upsets me. The only feeling is that of satisfaction. Today, when I look at my career graph, I feel proud because I have some significant and praiseworthy films to my credit.
Among my films, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge holds a special place in my heart. The film came at a time when I was being tagged as an anti and action hero because films like Baazigar, Darr and Anjaam were releasing back to back. Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge gave me the first opportunity to play a lover boy. I have to give credit to Aditya Chopra for having faith in me.
As a director, Adi intrigued me. I was surprised because Adi, despite being the son of Yash Chopra and the heir to one of the most prestigious production houses in India, decided to make a light and simple film. Since it was his directorial debut, Adi left no stone unturned to ensure that the film looked fresh.
I had worked with Yash Raj's team before. While making Darr, I had opened up to Adi. I understood his requirements as a director and he gave me my creative freedom as an actor. Right from day one, he had made it clear that he was not making a glamorous or dramatic film. His intention was to keep the film simple and realistic. Though new to filmmaking, Adi always did his homework thoroughly long before going into production. His script was just flawless.
Adi's concept regarding the character of Raj Malhotra, whom I played in the film, was very detailed. He wanted Raj to have the vitality of a teenager, the charm of a Casanova and the maturity of an adult. To some extent, I identified with Raj. When it came to understanding relationships, he was similar to me. His westernized appearance was a facade, deep down he was very traditional and respected Indian values. Like me, he never intended to hurt anyone's feelings. Raj believed in himself and was determined to marry the woman he loved against all odds. He engaged with her entire family and gained her trust without revealing his identity. The fact that he stood by his wife fascinated me.
Working with friends was fun. Adi, the director, Uday, who was my inspiration to play young Raj, a fabulous colleague like Kajol, also a friend. This ensured a relaxed and friendly atmosphere on the sets. Since Kajol and I have tremendous on-screen chemistry, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge looked realistic. Kajol is truly versatile. While she knows her strengths, she never acts with the intention of outshining her co-stars.
Our success as a couple has a lot to do with mutual understanding. We know each other's faults and strengths. We always give each other suggestions in our efforts to improve a scene. I remember how during the making of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Kajol and I tried to give our best without rehearsing before every shot. We both agreed that rehearsals tend to make a scene look worn out. After discussing a scene, we just went ahead and acted.
The songs of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge were very situational. I am not a music connoisseur; hence, I don't understand music. From what little I hear and feel, I believe music adds the required spice in Hindi films. I love the scene before Ruk Jaa O Dil in the film... where I am asked by Kajol to play the piano in public. I make a complete fool of myself while jumping up and down the piano. I had wanted to play such a scene as it was inspired by a Hollywood film called Great Balls of Fire. Other than this, my favourite song is Ho gaya hai tuhj ko... The beauty of the song lies in the imagination of the couple expressing their love for each other. This schedule is one of the most memorable in the film as we shot in exotic locations abroad. Every film has a particular scene that stands out. In Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, there is a scene where Raj is saying goodbye to Simran after their European tour ends. They are just about to part when she remembers to invite Raj to her wedding. She asks him for his address so that she can send him an invitation. In that situation, any other actor would have had tears in their eyes as he forces himself to smile and gives the address. But Raj was different. I love the way he just turns around and says to her, "Main nahi aayoonga... (I will not come)." Many people tell me that the scene was very touching.
Many people thought that the name of the film was misleading as this was a guy who does not elope with her despite countless opportunities. He still believes that his girl's family will come to him. He does not believe in running away from family members and getting married. Though born and brought up in London, he respects Indian culture. After this film, Raj had become the ideal son-in-law for most Punjabi families. I realised that this was the kind of man a girl would want to spend the rest of her life with.
I am glad that I created characters like Rahul from Darr, Raj Malhotra from Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Rahul from Dil To Pagal Hai and Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, and Raj Malhotra from Mohabbatein. Now I am lucky to have the opportunity to play famous characters like Ashoka The Great and Devdas.
People say that my characters and performances are repetitive. They think they all look the same. At first, all of this was very depressing. But now I've learned that your critics are always ready to write you off. They're looking for opportunities. As a result, I stopped reacting to them.
I guess this is a better way to deal with things. Right?
