After eight long years, Chandrachur Singh is all set to return to the film industry. The actor, last seen in Aamdani Atthani Kharcha Rupaiya in 2001, was forced to take a break due to a shoulder injury. A water skiing mishap in Goa led to a multiple dislocation of his shoulder joint, and the actor had to lay low for some time.
This Friday, he will be seen in his brother Abhimanyu Singh's animated film Maruti Mera Dost. His brother's production house, Contiloe Films, has made many television soaps. This is their first foray into feature films.
Chandrachur tells Nithya Ramani what he was up to in the last few years.
Where have you been all these years?
It's very amusing when people ask me where I have been just because I haven't done films. I've been very much in Mumbai.
I met with an accident which resulted in a shoulder dislocation. I was in pain for eight years. The only option was to undergo a painful surgery. The surgery could not happen in India, and I had to wait for six years. Finally, I got operated two years ago. Because of the pain, I could not work out or keep fit. So I put on a lot of weight due to which I couldn't get roles.
'I have never wanted to be a lead actor'
What were you doing during the break?
I was learning classical music and reading a lot. I was living life like any other person. I wasn't getting any offers that I wanted to be part of. I have always been picky and choosy about my films.
For me, the script matters the most. I should be motivated enough to do the film. I have never wanted to be a lead actor. Even if I was part of a multi-starrer, my role should be substantial. It's more about the banner and content than the money I'm being offered.
How did Maruti Mera Dost happen?My brother is making the film. When he asked me if I was interested in being a part of it, I agreed. I got involved with the film's creative team, and enjoyed being a part of it.
The film is about having faith in Hanumanji. It is about two children, and I play the father of one.
Maruti Mera Dost is not a children's film. Everybody can watch it, it's for all ages. It's a live action film with about two minutes of animation.
'I struggled in Mumbai for eight years before I got my first break'
Didn't not working upset you?
I have patience in abundance. I struggled in Mumbai for eight years before I got my first break [in Tere Mere Sapne, 1996]. I am a very secure person. Not working doesn't bother me.
Were you in touch with anyone from the film industry during this time?
The industry is such that you cannot be in constant touch with anyone. People are too busy to be in touch with each other everyday. But you can always start from where you left off.
Do you have any regrets?
No. Like I said, I am very secure and happy doing what I want to. Most of my films have done well, except for a few.
What next?
I am very superstitious about my work. I do not want to talk about anything unless the producers themselves make an official announcement. I have signed some films but cannot say anything about them.
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