Anuj is a newcomer and he will surely com

Why were you inspired to do this role?

Kalpana Lajmi had approached me earlier for SINGHASAN. However that did not work. But for CHINGARI, she gave me such a powerful narration that I could not refuse. I was totally awe-struck and had to say yes. Eventually, I agreed to do the role even before hearing the climax.

Is it true that you didn't take any signing amount?

At that time Kalpana Lajmi was in a funding crisis of sorts. But I had already given her the dates without any payment. And she was worried that I may give those dates to someone else if I didn't receive the signing amount. So she didn't even hesitate to break her fixed deposit and came to me with Rs. 2 lakhs, which I refused. She is a reputed filmmaker and someone with integrity and honesty in her blood. At that time, it was not a matter of money for me. I liked the role and thought it was good enough hence I didn't accept any money, especially when I knew that she was battling in money crisis. I knew the money would come in later.

And were you right in your assumptions?

Of course. Kalpana Lajmi set all accounts right the moment Vikas Sahni backed the project.

It's believed that you had a few issues with Anuj Sawney's take on your role in CHINGARI?

Oh yes. He had quoted in an interview that he smooched and kissed me 36 times till the take was finally approved. This is not true. I felt that statement was in utter bad taste and devoid of any ethical consideration. Only someone who makes sleazy films can say such things. And CHINGARI is not a sleaze flick. Anuj is a newcomer and he will surely come up in life. He is a very good co-star and he has done extremely well in his performance. Apart from that distasteful quote of his, I have no issues.