The 3-minute interview: Rahul Bose

Do you believe that the distinction between art and commercial cinema is blurring?

Certainly not! It never can. A commercial cinema follows a formula. At most, you can have an art film being treated commercially, like Mr and Mrs Iyer. But the dividing line between the two will always be as distinct as ever.

You play a frustrated army lawyer in Shaurya. What made you take up the role?

The character in Shaurya has been portrayed many times before. It is that of a frivilous young man who is thrust into a situation where he is forced to grow up. But the reason I took it up was because I wanted to put a bit of me into this man. It was important for me to go beyond what Samar (director) gave me on paper.

What does acting mean to you?

Oh well, it's certainly not a job! For me it is a way to impart a value system of integrity that is slowly getting lost.

Films for you are didactic then…

No! According to me films affect our lives at a very miniscule level. Films seeking to give social service message may move us momentarily, but rarely do they make us want to do anything about it. I believe if you want to do something for the society, don't make a film, get to the grassroots.

If you were offered the role of Saleem Sinai (from Midnight's Children) all over again, would you take it up?

In a hearbeat! Saleem Sinai is possibly one of the finest characters in literature. And to have got an opportunity to portray it was an honour. It's a pity that the film version of Midnight's Children never got made.

And who would be your preferred actress to play Padma (the female protagonist)

Ayesha Dharker (who was supposed to play the role in the series) or at most, Konkona Sen Sharma.

Is it disappointing to not get Konkona at the end of the movie?

(Laughs) Well now that you've mentioned it, I must confess I am beginning to get insecure.

Why are you still single?

One gets married for three reasons: companionship, security and sex. I get the first two from my family and the people who are close to me. As for sex, (cheuckles) I am not celibating!

FREUDIAN SNIP

Midnight's Children: Pain and sweetness
Everybody says…: Flawed but way ahead of its time
Iyer: Blessing! Because I met Aparna Sen
Rugby: Life
Tsunami: Turning point
Mallika Sherawat: The other side
Kareena Kapoor: Very, very warm

SIZZLING PICS: Clooney's girlfriend on the ramp | HOT: Aarti goes to the beach