Friday Aug 28 11:30 AM
Ruhail, Bollywood Trade News Network
Tell us about your role in WANTED. How is it different from your other acts that you have portrayed so far?This film is important for me for the simple fact that I got to do some amazing action sequences which I have never attempted before. I play the role of a hot-headed gangster in the film. Though action is in my genes, it was never a tough affair for me. But, what really made me look surprised were the dance moves choreographed by Prabhu Deva. It took me time to make myself comfortable with the steps. But, nevertheless it was an amazing experience. I can say that I have become a better dancer after this film.
Many people try to equate this film with GHAJINI. Would you agree both films have a lot in common?
I think GHAJINI was a romantic film at heart. I won't call it an out-an-out action movie, while as WANTED is on a different plane altogether. In our film, action lies at the centre of the script. Boney Ji (Boney Kapoor), insisted that we get some of the most high-end action incorporated in the narrative. Though, initially I was not very keen on doing such risky stunts, but later it became a thrilling experience. What I mean is that WANTED is in no way comparable to GHAJINI; the surname of the protagonists is the only common factor between these two films.
How was your experience of working with Prabhu Deva who is donning the director's hat in this film?
We have shot for well over 200 days for this film if I recall precisely. Prabhu Deva has a terrific sense of cinema and it was amazing how coolly he went about shooting some of the most complicated sequences in the film. He was more of a friend than a director during the whole shooting schedule. I would surely love to work with him again.
We hear you have sung a song in the film? Tell us more about it?
Yes that's true. It's a very tapori number when you hear it. The whole plan of singing was never decided before. It was during one of my meetings with Sajid-Wajid (music directors of WANTED), who told me about this song. To be frank, I liked the tune and with some tips from the duo recorded the song. I hope my crooning this time goes well with the audiences too.
We also heard that during your outdoor shoot of the film you experienced a new fan following in Greece. Could you share the details with us?
Smiles. Yes, it's an interesting story. Actually the villa that I was residing in happened to be walking distance away from the shooting venue. So, whenever I left for my shoots I would have the street dogs following me. The whole process became like one chain reaction with more dogs joining me on my way. Finally when I reached the sets, I would have around forty to fifty dogs accompanying me to the venue much to the surprise of the cast and crew present. This ritual took place everyday, sometimes prompting me to think as if I was the king of dogs.
How much is Radhey (Salman's name in WANTED) close to the real Salman Khan?
Well, if you talk about the temperament, as already said action is in my genes. But, Radhey is a gangster and I'm a simple man in real life. I may share some of his idiosyncrasies in my daily life, but the real me is a law abiding citizen unlike my portrayal in the film.
Finally, how would you describe the experience of working with Ayesha Takia?
She's married now. Have to sound toned down (laughs). Well, we really wanted to release this film before she could get married, but I guess she was faster (smiles). On a serious note, I think no one could have fitted well into Ayesha's character. I like her sheer professional attitude and many people have told me that our chemistry is already sizzling on screen. What more can I say?