In a recent interview with The Indian Express, acclaimed actor Pankaj Jha, known for his role as MLA Chandrakishore Singh in the popular web series Panchayat, voiced his discontent with Bollywood’s delayed recognition of the late Irrfan Khan’s exceptional talent. Jha, who has a diverse portfolio of roles in films like Black Friday and Gulaal, as well as TV and web shows, emphasized the need for the industry to introspect on its treatment of genuine talent.
Source : TOI
“Irrfan Khan: A True Actor”
Jha expressed his admiration for Irrfan Khan, stating, “I believe actors should refrain from watching films. What happens is they start to mimic it. Today, I feel every actor is mimicking someone. There was only one actor in the industry who was real, that was Irrfan Khan. He has set a benchmark for actors and everybody is trying to reach that benchmark but it is not easy to reach.” He went on to challenge the industry’s sluggishness in acknowledging Khan’s brilliance, saying, “We should question the industry why it takes them so much time to recognise true talents like Irrfan Khan.”
Source:- India today
Critique of the “Struggle” Narrative
Previously, in an interview with Lallantop Cinema, Jha had criticized fellow actor Pankaj Tripathi for glamorizing the notion of ‘struggle’ in the industry. Jha remarked, “I don’t like the word ‘struggle’. If you’ve chosen to follow your passion, you should enjoy it, shouldn’t you? And as we’ve seen often in the industry, people like to glamorise their struggles. Some people say they sold potatoes, others say they lived in a tiny house, some say they stole another actor’s slippers. I feel every situation is a learning experience.”
Pankaj Jha’s Distinguished Career
Pankaj Jha gained significant recognition with his role in Mira Nair’s 2001 comedy-drama Monsoon Wedding. He has since appeared in a plethora of notable Bollywood films including Company, Haasil, Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi, Black Friday, Aap Kaa Surroor, Gulaal, Teen Patti, and Atrangi Re. His versatility extends to television and web series, featuring in shows like 2612, SuperCops Vs Super Villains, and recently, Nirmal Pathak Ki Ghar Wapsi, Panchayat, and SSC.
In Panchayat, Jha’s portrayal of Vidhayak Ji, also known as MLA Chandrakishore ‘Chandu’ Singh, has earned widespread acclaim. The show’s third season has been well received and continues to be a favorite among viewers on Prime Video India.
The industry’s need to reassess how it identifies and nurtures talent remains a critical discussion, one that Pankaj Jha’s recent comments have brought to the forefront.
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