There's still so much left to explore as an actor: Ashok Saraf
Veteran actor
Ashok Saraf
has brought to life many memorable characters over five decades of his illustrious career. Known for his impeccable comic timing as well as roles with emotional depth, the Hum Paanch and Ashi Hi Banwa Banwi actor was recently honoured with the prestigious
Padma Shri
, an honour he dedicated to his family and audience.
At 78, Saraf is as excited as ever for new challenges, diverse roles, and yet-to-be explored stories. In a chat with us, he reflects on his journey in showbiz, his approach towards his characters, and more.
'Every appreciation is close to my heart'
Speaking about receiving one of the highest civilian honours, Saraf shares, 'Every appreciation that I have received has been very close to my heart. What makes this one so special is that it recognises my work across films, theatre and television.
My years of hard work and dedication have been acknowledged. It's a huge thing for me, and I am overwhelmed.' Turning nostalgic, he adds, 'I started off 54 years ago and I am fortunate to be working even today.
Memories from my journey came rushing back while accepting the honour.'
'I don't give much importance to the length of the role'
For the actor, who has played leading as well as supporting roles and cameos, it has never been about screen time or the length of a role. 'I don't give much importance to that aspect.
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I see how that character contributes to the story,' he says, and elaborates, 'Take Singham for instance. It was just a couple of scenes that I had in the film. But imagine the kind of impact it had. So, it's about how well you justify the part you are given.
' The Shentimental actor adds, 'Once the camera rolls, I surrender completely to the role. However, there have been times when I have offered suggestions and made spontaneous additions whenever I felt it was important to refine my character during the shoot.'
'I could work consistently because of Nivedita'
He credits the unwavering support of his wife Nivedita Joshi Saraf for his remarkable journey in showbiz. 'If she had not been by my side, I wouldn't have made it till here,' he said, adding, 'She manages both her work and home so efficiently. As a husband I feel so proud to see that. It is because of her that I have been able to work consistently all these years,' he says.
'Filmmakers must offer more
comedy films
'
Having acted in over 250 films in his career, Saraf is often remembered for his roles in comedy films. 'I feel the Marathi audience loves to stay happy. Our audience has a wonderful sense of humour, and the industry has produced many cult comedies in the past. Today, filmmakers are pushing the envelope in all aspects, be it with the stories they handle or even the technical finesse. But I feel they must offer the viewers more comedy films,' says Saraf, who has acted in several hit comedies like Ashi Hi Banwa Banwi, Shejari Shejari, Gammat Jammat and Navra Mazha Navsacha.
About his work, the actor adds, 'I feel I've only scratched the surface with the characters I have played. There is so much left for me to explore as an actor.'
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