‘I survived because of Punjabi cinema’

Manpriya Singh 

While the makers are still trying to keep the story and characters of Mitti Da Bawa under the wraps, the fact that it’s a film dedicated to the 550th Parkash Utsav of Guru Nanak Dev ji gives away. “Some films are made for entertainment, some with double-meaning dialogues and comedy for commercial compulsions, this film is something that nourishes your soul and that’s all I am allowed to say at the moment,” Raza Murad, who plays one of the principal characters, gets us started but stops right there about what to expect, while at the first-look and music launch of the film. 

Off the screen as well, it’s a little display of India at the harmonious best when, a Muslim actor conveys the wishes for the ongoing Navratras and the upcoming Gurpurab.  “It’s a film that conveys the simplest yet the most significant message of the importance of doing good deeds, community service. You must have seen in the gurdwaras, even the rich and the powerful come together to do dishes, clean shoes, sit together, eat the same food. It’s a great lesson in humanity.”  It’s tough to tear away when that baritone voice takes over.

When we last spoke to him about the importance of Punjabi cinema in his life, he was ever grateful during his visit to Chandigarh University a year ago, something he leaves no opportunity to talk about. His Punjab connect is as strong as an actor’s usually is with his debut. “My house ran only because of Punjabi cinema for 12 years. My first Punjabi film Dharamjeet happened when I had no work. This industry supported me during the lowest of phase.”

Which is why he says, “Till today whenever I get a call to play a part in a Punjabi film, I don’t even ask about my role, I just say a yes.” 

Shuttling both fluently and effortlessly between Punjabi and Hindi merits a question as to how he picked up the language. “I didn’t learn it from anywhere. I didn’t know it either, but while cramming dialogues for the scenes, I picked up the language.” 

Quite a refreshing take at a time when dubbing artistes and dialogue coaches are more of a necessity than just an option.  Coming up are lots of projects both in Bollywood and a few in regional cinema as well, but once again, he’ll stop right there. 

Mitti Da Bawa is due for October 18 release. 

manpriya@tribunemail.com