Why Oberoi Sr hasn't acted with son Vivei

Will we see you and Viveik in a film together?
"I have been thinking about it for many years. I know our combo will create a buzz, but believe me, I have never worked for buzz, and I've always worked because of my shauk. We've received offers to act together, but I haven't said yes to any. Most of those films had me in bit roles, where I perform in one or two scenes, and then become a photograph on the wall. Give me a full-fledged, meaty role with my son, and I promise that the result will be very exciting."

Why don't we see you in films these days?
Often, I have refused films if I have not been happy with the role, money or the banner. There was a time when I got saturated doing negative roles and sat at home for eleven months, until Aitbaar came along. Then I did a spate of positive roles. Last, I did Socha Na Tha.

I had done it all in films — Hindi, English, Bengali, Telugu. I did films in France and Japan. I needed to rest, to unwind, to experience spiritualism. I needed to read and play golf (I am crazy about it); I wish I had started playing when I was younger.

Are you going to join politics?
I was never in the race to get a seat. I was offered one, but refused. I was impressed by Atal Bihari Vajpayee's various contributions towards the welfare of the country — that drew me into his fold. But I think Dr Manmonhan Singh is doing a fine job.

Did you ever think of making a film for Viveik?
Yes, I did. But I knew I wouldn't have the aptitude and patience to handle other actors. I struggled for Viveik; I took his photograph to producers, before Ramu finally agreed to cast him in Company.

Do you advise Viveik?
I advise him on almost everything, from how he walks to what he eats — but not on his selection of films. On the work front, I simply quote his price to filmmakers. Most actors feel uncomfortable quoting their price; Viveik is no exception.

Do you help him sort out his problems?
Let him learn. Time teaches you everything. Jahan sorry bolna tha, for Viveik, bachpan mein, maine bola hai.

Your reaction to people saying that Viveik's social work is a publicity stunt?
Sometimes, it used to bother me, but no one in the family lost sleep over it. Everybody has a different level of understanding and that's why people say what they do. But you cannot stop doing good work because of it.