On a personal note: Zeeshan Ayyub -Governance Now

On a personal note: Zeeshan Ayyub

Deexa Khanduri | May 9, 2019 | Delhi

#Bollywood #interview #Zeeshan Ayyub #theater

Courtesy: Zeeshan Ayyub Twitter

Zeeshan Ayyub worked in theatre before he made his Bollywood debut in 2011 with the critically acclaimed No One Killed Jessica. He has since gone on to do a number of versatile roles such as “Chintu” Kumar Singh in Tanu Weds Manu, the loyal Sadiq in Raees, the traitor brother of Kangana Ranaut in Manikarnika and “Guddu” Singh in Zero. Born in Delhi, Zeeshan completed his schooling at a Kendriya Vidyalaya and earned a bachelor’s degree in science from Kirori Mal College with aspirations of doing engineering but went on to train in theatre at the National School of Drama (NSD).

How was the year 2018 for you?

Interesting! I have learned so many things and hope to do better in future.

Theatre vs movies – what’s the difference and how do you manage the balance?

There is not much difference only the mediums are different. Theatre does not provide enough money to survive but films definitely do. I take out time to do theatre as well because if you think that after doing big films you will get into theatre then that’s tough, so I do both simultaneously.

What is your take on personal discipline as an actor?

I think internal discipline is of much importance, like how honestly you do your work. External discipline comes from internal discipline.

What comes in your mind when choosing between the banner and the script? What is your definition of a good film?

I think it’s the script that matters the most for me. I mean banner is also important but it’s the script that makes the film.

What do you think about the state of the performing arts?

I think we need to take it seriously as we are not giving it enough importance. It can be an important tool to shake up things. As a society, we should accept it to become a better nation.

In Manikarnika, you replaced Sonu Sood. Did it come with extra responsibility?

No, nothing like that. He must have approached the character in a different way and I approached it in a different way. I synced well with Kangana.

How is it working with two directors in this film?

I had a great time. We discussed a few things and implemented them. I was just following Kangana’s directions. Her idea was that my character comes across as a normal man and not someone from a particular period. The shooting went very smooth. I enjoyed working with both the directors.

Which are your forthcoming movies and what roles are you playing in them?

Next up are Arjun Patiala and Turram Khan which will be releasing this year. I won’t say much about the roles as I’m not allowed to.

What’s your success mantra?

Keep on working the way I have been and learning new things. And if you have films to do, you are successful.

– As told to Deexa Khanduri

(This interview appears in the May 15, 2019 edition)

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