Neil Nitin Mukesh: “At times, rumours make for a good read!”
Although he comes from a family of singers, Neil Nitin Mukesh always wanted to be an actor. The star opens up about acting, women and the ‘perfect day’...
COSMO: You’re a singer and compose songs as well, but you chose to live your grandfaher’s dream by being an actor. Tell us more...
NEIL NITIN MUKESH:
“I come from a family of singers, but my dream was to be in movies. Since I was four, I knew that if there was anything I wanted to do in life, it was acting. My grandfather was a legendary singer, and shouldering his name is a great responsibility. He wanted to be an actor but couldn’t be one, and the ability to live his dream is a blessing.”
C:
So tell us, what’s the best and worst part about being an actor?
NNM:
“Honestly, I absolutely love my job! I love every single aspect of it. If there is anything that’s bothersome, it’s the fact that you have to be away from family for long periods of time. But now when I’m on outdoor shoots for more than a month, I invite them over.”
C: What’s been keeping you busy these days?
NNM: “Normally, I do a film or two, each year. But now I’ve really started pushing my pampered self. So I’m all about work these days. My target is six films between December 2012 and December 2013. I’m already done with three— Shortcut Romeo, 3G and David. I’m currently shooting for Ishqeria, which happens to be my first love story.”
C: What genre of movies do you enjoy working on the most?
NNM: “Thrillers. There are so many emotions to work with in them. Plus, I love films where you’re constantly sitting on the edge of your seat.”
C: How do you prepare yourself for a role...and is it difficult removing yourself from it later?
NNM: “There is always that one film that leaves its colour on you. Madhur Bhandarkar’s Jail was that film. It stayed with me for a long time. Generally, I just put myself in that given situation and emote.”
C: What do you like doing when you’re not working?
NNM: “I love playing my piano, composing music, and taking pictures. Else you’ll find me lazing in bed, watching movie after movie.” Neil likes to stand out in brights
C: How do you deal with all the attention you get from the opposite sex?
NNM: “With a smile and an occasional wink!”
C: What’s the one thing you don’t get about women?
NNM: “Their emotional strength. I belive men are much weaker emotionally, as compared to women.”
C: Tell us about your personal style
NNM: “Simple, smart and stylish.”
C: Do you believe in love?
NNM: “Oh, yes! In fact, I’m usually the only one in the relationship who is in
love. Sad thing is, I learn that much later. But love happens again. I never ever lose hope.”
C: How do you deal with the constant media attention?
NNM: “I’ve learned to take it as part of my job. I never let either praise or criticism go to my head. And sometimes rumours make for a good read. That’s all I treat it as. As long as I sleep with a clean conscience at night, I know I’m good.”
C: If you had to give yourself a five word definition, what would it be?
NNM: “A man you can love.”