Whether it is rib tickling comedy or an action packed film; Vaibhav Mangale has always found suitable roles for him. In the year 2001, he came to Mumbai to begin his acting career and had to literally struggle for the next 3 to 4 years. It was his debut in Paresh Mokashi’s Marathi play ‘Mukkam Post Bombilwadi’ where his talent was noticed; as the play performed 550 shows. Thereafter, Vaibhav performed in Musical play ‘Lagnakallol'; for which performance, he won the best actor award. But, it was his exposure in TV reality show ‘Fu Bai Fu’ on Zee Marathi; that brought him name and fame.

Today, Vaibhav Mangale has reached such a stage that scripts are written for him. Best example is his just released TV serial ‘Shejari Pakke Shejari(SSPS) on Zee Marathi. Vaibhav has combined very well with his favourite co star Anand Ingale to offer this humour filled theme. Marathi Movie World spoke to this versatile actor. Excerpts from an interview.

Vaibhav Mangale, ActorQ: You spent your childhood and completed your education from Konkan. Did you come to Mumbai in search of a job ?

A: I spent my childhood in Deorukh and completed my B.Sc.D.Ed. from Ratnagiri. But, I could not get a job of a teacher. I took a decision to come to Mumbai, because of the encouragement from my uncle. My uncle was confident that more than a job; a career in acting would open doors for me in Mumbai.

Q: Besides acting and music, you are also a good mimicry artist and you have proved it. Have you inherited these skills from your parents ?

A: My father used to sing in Orchestra. Both my paternal as well as maternal Grandfathers performed in Music based plays of yesteryears. So, obviously, I inherited these skills from
them. Before coming to Mumbai, I used to perform in one act plays, story telling competitions and even took part in the State level one act plays.

Q: Today, Marathi audience recognise you more as a mimicry artist. Why didn’t you develop this skill further?

A: Actually, I can perform mimicry of only certain well known people like Vikram Gokhale, Dr.Shreeram Lagoo and Lata Mangeshkar. But, it is not my passion. Mimicry is not a form of acting art. Every mimicry artist is not necessarily a good actor. Therefore, I focussed my attention on acting career.

Q: It is because of television, you could reach every household and become popular. To avoid being typecast, what different ways you attempted?

A: My entry on television was first through Shrirang Godboole’s programme ‘Ghadlay Bighadlay’ on Zee television. Then through ‘Comedy Comedy’ and ‘Fu Bai Fu’; I received appreciation. Mahesh Manjrekar offered me a negative role in his film ‘Kaksparsha’. And now, I am playing an important character of B.L.Pathak from U.P. in Zee Marathi’s new serial ‘Shejari Shejari Pakke Shejari’.

Q: A man from Konkan, speaking U.P. style Hindi so fluently. What is the secret behind this effort?

A: In a city like Mumbai, you come across Hindi speaking people at every place. Even in our Marathi entertainment, in back stage there are many workers from UP. So, I used closely observe their accent. Even our sound recordist is from UP. His name is Shivaji. He helped me a lot to improvise on my accent. It is because of him, I could portray Brijlal Pathak’s character.

Q:You have been part of all the three areas of entertainment; i.e. stage, television and films. Where you feel more comfortable?

A: Stage and films help an actor to achieve what he aspires for; but, television only makes him popular. I love to do films; as the canvas is big and there is plenty of scope. In just three hours you create your own world; which I consider more challenging. When you are working for television, people watch you while eating or doing some other work; and thus take your performance very casually. But, the same audience pay for tickets and watch your performance seriously.

Q: Haven’t you received offers from Hindi ?

A: I did receive offers from Hindi; but, they were for small roles, which didn’t interest me. First, let me settle down in Marathi entertainment industry. Then, let me see, if any good offer comes from Hindi.

Q: How often do you visit your native place ?

A: At present, due to work commitment, I am unable to visit. But, I try to make it at least 2- 3 times a year. I have a house there, where my brother and relatives live. But, if you ask me about Konkan;I do get a chance to visit between Khed and Goa; in connection with my stage shows. Frankly speaking, I feel homely anywhere in Konkan.

Q: What is your message to the Marathi audience ?

A: I appeal to them to go and watch the Drama and film in theatre; by purchasing tickets. I also feel that they should not expect much from the Government. Being a teacher, I would say that each and every individual should behave like a good citizen. Personally I feel that the lessons about community living Civics should be offered to the children in school, from day one of the school.