Milind Gavali is a popular Marathi actor, especially among the rural class. The main reason being that he has acted in more rural based films than multiplex type of Marathi films. His latest film ‘Aamhi Ka Tisare’ on a sensitive social issue dealing with the lives transgender community, has been released. Marathi Movie world spoke to Milind Gavali, to find out his reaction. Excerpts from the interview:

Q: When you were offered the role of an Eunuch in the film ‘Aamhi Ka Teesare’, what was your reaction?
A: My reaction was positive. For a long time I was looking for a different type of role and this offer fulfilled my desire. I had done few films with Alka tai. And, we had good tuning with each other. Therefore, when this role came to me through her, I made the best out of it. To play a transgender was very challenging.

Q: To present this character, did you study similar characters?
A: This role was totally different from the kind of roles, we are generally offered. During my meeting with Alka Tai and writer Ramesh More, I was briefed about my role. I was also made to interact
with some of the real life characters from this community, which enabled me to study their lifestyle.

Q: What is the actual theme? Is the character you are playing resembles with the life of Laxmi Tripathi ?
A: After her appearance in the popular TV programme, Laxmi Tripathi has attained celebrity status. This film’s story has been penned, keeping her life in mind. It is almost her real life story. It was only because her parents accepted her in this condition and offered her best education, so that she could face the challenges in this society. Otherwise, any other parents would not have dared to keep such child at home. It’s very unfortunate that parents don’t mind bringing up their children suffering from physical handicap or blindness; but when it comes to upbringing a transgender; they stay away from it.

Q: In Marathi many films are produced, on sensible topics; but, they don’t reach to masses. Do you regret that ?
A: No, there is no regret. Actually most of my films were based on rural life; which were more popular among rural population. They even saw such films at Tent theatres during rural fairs. Such films are not expected to draw crowds at multiplexes. I have done only handful of films, which were shown in multiplexes. Generally, my films are for rural people; and hence there is no such feeling to feel sorry.

Q: This film of yours is not a commercial film; but an ‘out of the box’ film throwing light on a social issue. What efforts are you taking to reach out to masses?
A: Now, what we are talking is also one way of reaching out to to the people. Besides your internet medium, I am also trying to speak to electronic and print media. Besides this, participation in film festivals, has also given me a chance to interact with people from all over the world. About the life of a transgender, there is a lot of misunderstanding in the society. I am sure, this film will remove all the doubts create social awareness in understanding their problems.

Q: Tell us something about your forthcoming films?
A: There is ‘Shoor Aamhi Sardar’ directed by Ramesh More himself. I have completed shooting of ‘Dholkichya Talwar’ and then there is one comedy film ‘Eka Varchadh Ek’ which is due for release in July 2012. ‘Tejaswini’ is still remaining with 25% of work.

Q: Are you happy with your present journey in this field ?
A: This is just a beginning. There is much more to do. This is such a wide field that it gives a feeling of taking a leap into the sky. It’s so huge. Whatever we do, is always little. It’s a wonderful journey. Here in one life, you get a chance to live different lives through the characters you play.