“I Do Not Differentiate Between Small & Big Roles”: Brijendra Kala

There are some actors who leave a huge mark even in a small, one-scene role. In a career spanning thirty-five years, Brijendra Kala has played a variety of roles in theatre and films. In films, he has played both small and larger parts but regardless of the length of the role, his performance has always stood out. In this interview, he talks about his new film ‘Ekkees Tareekh Shubh Muhurat’, the journey from being a TV writer to acting in films, his most memorable role till date, his criteria for picking up a project and upcoming films.

Tell us something about your character in ‘Ekkees Tareekh Shubh Muhurat’.

The film is set in Mathura. In small towns, there are always some people who are eager to find matches for young man and woman they know of. The character I play keep making this young man and his father, played by Sanjai Mishra, met several women but something or the other goes wrong every time and it gives rise to a comic situation in the film.

Whether it is a full-fledged role in ‘Fryday’ or a small role in ‘PK’ – you always leave an impact with your performance. Have you ever differentiated between the parts you are offered?

No, I try to play every role I am offered to the best of my abilities. I do not differentiate between small and big roles. I have come to Lucknow to shoot for a cameo in Satish Kaushik’s new film. It is just a one day shoot but I really admire Satish ji as an artist, so I was more than happy when he asked me to be a part of his film. When Rajkumar Hirani offered me ‘PK’, I loved the basic concept of the film. Even though my role was small, since it was a big film, I was noticed. Similarly, in ‘Tubelight’ also I had a small part. A lot of people say the film underperformed but it earned more than 200 crores globally and I felt thrilled about the fact that so many people watched a film which I was a part of.

Which has been your most memorable till date?

I have received the most accolades for my role in ‘Paan Singh Tomar’. I also loved the way my character shaped up in ‘Mithya’ and ‘Fryday’.