The craft of acting can be taught: Bajpayee

‘THE CRAFT OF ACTING CAN BE TAUGHT’

National Award winning actor Manoj Bajpayee, whose forthcoming release is Neeraj Pandey’s Aiyaary, says the craft of acting can be taught, but it needs relentless passion from the learner.

So, can acting be taught or does it come from the experiences of life?

Manoj, whose application to the National School of Drama (NSD) was rejected multiple times, said: “I think the craft of acting can be taught. Yes, there’s a lot we embrace from the experience of life and to a certain point, there is inborn talent. But acting is a mix of talent and craft.

“I know many average actors, who learnt the craft rightly and with the years of practice, they have managed to find their way. That is why we go to some of the great institutes in our country like NSD and Film and Television Institute of India. Some of the greatest personalities of the craft visit there to teach youngsters about acting.

“Having said that, I believe one can only teach you the art of act- ing if you are passionate about it...this art form comes from passion.”

In Aiyaary, Manoj shares the frame with young actor Sidharth Malhotra. He is impressed by Sidharth’s interest in learning.

“I love to share my experience with youngsters, especially with those who have an interest to learn the craft. I have been conducting acting workshops from the age of 26 when I learn it from Barry John. When Malhotra called me and showed his interest to know more about acting, I was more than happy to share.

“While shooting, I do not try to correct anybody because that is the director’s area. But off the set, if a youngster like Malhotra is willing to learn, for me, sharing becomes all the more enjoyable,” Bajpayee said.

Giving a glimpse into the story of Aiyaary, he said: “The story revolves around a mentor and protegee and the ideology between two different generations. The journey of these two characters that I and Sidharth are playing is the life of the story.

“Yes, there are some look changes in the film which comes in some of the crucial parts of the film, but moreover, the story is very interesting.”

In the past, Bajpayee has worked with director Neeraj Pandey in films like Special 26, Saat Uchakkey and Naam Shabana. So how has their relationship evolved?

“I think my bonding has evolved with Pandey film to film. Off the set, we meet many times and talk a lot about sharing ideas and opinions. We are on the same wavelength intellectually and as creative people,” Bajpayee replied.

Starting his career in 1994, Manoj has struggled through life and most of his content-driven films were not well-promoted.

He has opened up to the media and indulges in promotional activities.

“Well, it is something that needs to be done and to an extent all, we actors are happily doing it”.