Manoj Bajpayee is one of the best talents Indian film industry has. The actor has delivered some noteworthy performances in movies like Aligarh, Satya, Gangs of Wasseypur among others. Bajpayee has received two National Awards in the past, in the category of Best Actor in Supporting role and Special Jury Award. However, in his career span of over 21 years, the actor has failed to bag a National Award in the Best Actor category despite giving out powerful performances.
When the National Awards for this year were announced, many were left disappointed after the talented actor did not receive the Best Actor Award for his sensitive performance in Aligarh. Earlier when the actor was asked about it, he refused to comment on it at all.
However, days after the announcement, Manoj has finally opened up about the Aligarh snub, in an interview to a leading daily. Commenting on it, he said, "Whether you are okay with it or not, you have to accept the (award) judgment, which has come out and move on from there. You can't base your life on any award in this country. It's all about moving on and waiting for the next opportunity. This is not the last year of my life."
Further, he added that as an actor he is still not content with the work he has done. "I feel I haven't even started out in the industry. This is not a flamboyant statement, it is a statement from a person who feels he should have utilised 75% of his talent by now. The actor in me still feels that I am using only 25% of my ability. I am constantly looking forward to working with a new director, good narrative, portraying new unique roles and that is why I feel this way," Bajpayee said.
When asked if he believes things have changed in the industry in the last 5 years, he said, "I have given my 100% to every project but in the past five years things have changed drastically and they have changed for good. So you feel that it is the best time to be a part of the movie industry and give as much as you can."
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