Do you plan to direct?
There are people who want me to direct movies. True, it comes to my mind at times as well, but I am so busy.
You mean, no time for direction?
Direction is not easy. First of all, everyday you have to be there (on the sets) irrespective of whether all the artists are there or not. Right from shooting, pre-production, post-production, editing, music (you have to be there). For this, you need a lot of time, which I do not have. But I have this on my mind, maybe one day I will. This year, we may, (but) no, not so soon. But some day I may (direct).
Is your wife going to join Bollywood as an actress?
No, no (laughs). Actually, it is for a special reason, (by the request) of special people and for a specific project. Not that she is getting a break or something in Bollywood.
If she had wanted to act in films, she could have done that long time ago. (She is acting) Because our friend and one of the best directors in the country, Ashutosh Gowarikar, who we hold him in very high esteem, is making a very big film, Akbar-Jodha.
My understanding is that they were looking for someone who looks dignified, beautiful, royal and carries herself well for an important character in the film. He used to say that the character he was looking for should be like Poonamji.
They were looking for that character for almost a year, but when he did not get it, he said 'why someone like Poonamji, why not Poonamji herself?'
He was not sure whether she or I would agree. He came to see me and I told him that I hold in high esteem. He is, you know, a wonderful director and a very clean man. He would never compromise on the integrity of his films. Also, we know the family very well. They are wonderful people. So, I said there is not objection on my part. After all, it is for a special reason and for special people.
Is this going to be the formal launch of her acting career?
No, this does not mean that she will be travelling from studio to studio everyday. She will be doing it for this particular film. If ever something special (film) comes her way, she will do (acting). Why not?
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