Sushant Shelar has been in the field of acting, since his school days. So, among the youngsters of today’s Marathi entertainment industry, he has acquired considerable experience, for the past twenty years. He did his first commercial play in 1992, when he was in 7th standard. The very next year, he made his debut as a child artiste in a film and a TV serial ‘Mayur Pankh’ .
Till now, Sushant has won best supporting actor award for his film ‘Picnic’. Marathi Movie world spoke to this talented actor. Excerpts from an interview.
Q: We understand that you have gone through a lot of struggle in your field. Any memories of the past happenings?
A: Actually, I enjoyed that period. Surviving the days on Vada Paav …. even today, when I recollect this period ,I feel happy. And, I am sure, many like me, have gone through this stage.
Q: Watching you perform variety of roles today, in films; don’t you feel that in spite of possessing talent, it took a long time for you to establish yourself? A: There is nothing like that. Actually, even today, my struggle in going on.
Q: According to you, what is the reason for success of ‘Duniyadari’ ?
A: First of all, I would like to mention about the writer of the novel Suhas Shirwalkar. Thereafter, the credit goes to the team of ‘Duniyadari’ . During the making of this film, there was an inner feeling amongst all of us that this film would become super hit.
Q:Now, you are also there in late Rajiv Patil’s forthcoming film ‘Vanshavel’. What’s your reaction?
A: Rajiv was a very good friend. I had earlier worked with him for the film ‘Blind Game’. I feel that I was fortunate to get another chance to work with a director like him. I am sure, ‘Vanshavel’ would also attain grand success.
Q: Can you please tell us something about this film.
A: Today, we are missing the joint family system. Therefore, those who have separated from the Joint family, if they go and watch this film, they will certainly be inspired to join back with their original joint family system. So much will be the impact of this film. The tagline of the film speaks everything. i.e. ‘If the family survives, the nation will survive.’
Q: And, what about your role ?
A: I am playing an important main character of a Doctor, who is very much influenced by his father, who takes all the decisions in the family. But, one day, when his own wife deserts him, he suffers. When a woman walks out of the life of a man, the vacuum created thereafter in his life, is all that this film talks about.
Q. Recently, you were also seen on stage. Why did you stop doing theatre?
A: I have not stopped. Actually, I am planning to perform in a new play. But, recently, due to preparations for MICTA,I could not find time and hence it is postponed. With my association with Maharashtra Kalanidhhi I was totally occupied with the event along with Mahesh Manjrekar. Even otherwise, I am associated with Natya Parishad activities as their active member.
Q: Do you consider anyone as your idol in this acting field ?
A: There is no one in particular. I like to learn from all of them. Because, there is something to learn from each one of the, But, my favourite actor is Mr. Amitabh Bachchan.
Q: What do you think about the taste of today’s audience?
A: Today, people like to have a complete package, which was offered by ‘Duniyadari’. There was a love story, action, drama and good music; offering total entertainment. In Marathi films, people also need a good story. Therefore, a film like ‘Grand Masti’ will never work in Marathi.
