Manoj Bajpayee, the acclaimed actor known for his compelling performances, including his role in “The Family Man,” recently offered candid insights into his career, personal life, and the evolving landscape of entertainment. His discussions touched on balancing professional demands with family, his relationships with co-stars, and his perspectives on the digital streaming era.
Bajpayee emphasized the critical role his wife, Nisha, plays in maintaining harmony between his demanding work schedule and family life. He acknowledged the unique challenges actors face, likening their profession to intelligence operatives who are always on call. Unlike those with fixed office hours, actors often have unpredictable schedules, spending extended periods away from home.
The actor noted that finding a balance between work and family is a universal struggle, but it is particularly difficult for those in freelance professions. He credited his wife, herself an actress, with understanding the nuances and demands of their shared profession, which makes managing their household significantly easier. Despite the challenges, the couple plans a long vacation in December, highlighting their commitment to family time.
Bajpayee also shared a philosophical view on relationships, stating that some friction is natural and even healthy. He suggested that if there were never any disagreements, relationships could become monotonous. This perspective applies to all families, not just those in the entertainment industry, and contributes to keeping connections vibrant.
Reflecting on working with fellow actor Jaideep Ahlawat, Bajpayee recounted their history together. Their first collaboration was the film “Chittagong,” which also featured other Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) batchmates like Rajkummar Rao and Vijay Varma. Bajpayee revealed that he initially suggested Ahlawat’s name to director Anurag Kashyap, who often sought his recommendations for actors.
The atmosphere on set when Bajpayee and Ahlawat worked together was positive, marked by light conversations and a focus on their craft. Bajpayee, known for his culinary skills, sometimes cooked mutton on set, though Ahlawat preferred chicken. Their interactions were typical of co-actors, maintaining a respectful senior-junior dynamic.
Regarding the current trends in the OTT space, Bajpayee believes that opportunities remain abundant for all artists, despite a noticeable shift toward commercial and A-lister projects. He suggested that platforms are increasingly prioritizing content that appeals to families, which may not encompass every story. However, artists and filmmakers must continue to carve out their unique paths.
He views the evolving nature of the industry as a constant battle that drives creativity and innovation. Bajpayee affirmed that artists, by their very nature, often embody a rebellious spirit against conventional norms, whether from family or society. This inherent defiance fuels their continuous search for new narratives and fresh directions.