'Why should I unnerve my co-anchors?'
Host of 'Antakshari-The Great Challenge', Annu Kapoor insists that he's been supportive of them, including Juhi Parmar.
'Antakshari—The Great Challenge' (Star One) isn't a reality show, which provides fresh talents to the music industry.
Why do we have to live in a false world? Let's make no bones about it. Whether it is 'Indian Idol' (Sony) or other so-called reality shows, they are not discovering new talent. Rather we are increasing the bank balance of the channel as well as the mobile service provider because six rupees is shared for every sms sent as a vote for a candidate.
Is it true that you work without a script?
Yes. I do not depend on any script but a brief given to me by Gajendra Singh (producer-director of the show).
There are allegations of you unnerving your co-anchors.
It is just that—an allegation. Why should I unnerve my co-anchors? It is my duty and responsibility to fully support them and make them feel comfortable. Ask Juhi Parmar whether I end up frightening her!
How was it acting with Farhan Akhtar in 'The Fakir of Venice'?
I play the title role of a fakir called Abdul Sattar Sheikh. The film is set against the backdrop of Bollywood. Farhan plays the role of a production controller. It is an Indo-Italian co-production and is based on a real-life incident involving a fakir, in Mumbai in 1999. I advised Farhan to make original films instead of remaking old hits like 'Don'.
Which is the film that you recently enjoyed?
I have seen just two films in the last 17 years—'Lagaan' and 'Dil Chahta Hai'. I think that in 'Lagaan' Aamir Khan's was the most kamzor performance as compared to the others. Not many realise that a good role does not necessarily mean a good performance.
There are rumours about you taking to farming.
I own a farmhouse in Ratholi village in Badlapur, which is spread over five acres of land. I have been growing a lot of fruits and vegetables there for the past nine years. I trade as a farmer on a small scale.
Name two people who have inspired you the most.
Guru Nanak and Osho Rajneesh. I admire Osho for his modern thinking and Guru Nanak for discovering the most modern religion.
Indian Idol 16
Indias Got Talent 11
