Manoj Bajpayee Reflects on the Impact of Aks After 24 Years

Aks: A Milestone in Manoj Bajpayee's Career

Manoj Bajpayee recently shared that Aks was a pivotal film in my career. He signed on for the project in 1999, shortly after his roles in Satya, Shool, and Kaun. Anurag Kashyap informed him that Rakeysh Mehra wanted to meet, and during their first discussion, Bajpayee felt an immediate connection to the story.

Was the role challenging?

Bajpayee noted that the character Raghavan required a unique approach, especially since it involved no dialogue, compelling him to conceptualize everything mentally.

Aks: A Complex Exploration of Good and Evil

He elaborated on the film's intricate portrayal of evil, describing it as multifaceted—attractive, greedy, brutal, and clever. Raghavan was crafted to embody these traits, showcasing a character capable of foresight.

Character Evolution

Bajpayee emphasized the character's transformation, stating that it was crucial to convey the complexity of Raghavan. He continuously improvised with Rakeysh Mehra, refining the character until it was ready for dialogue.

Philosophical Undertones

The concept of the imperishable soul, encapsulated in the phrase na marta hai, na koi marta hai, was a significant aspect of his rehearsals. The six-month journey to develop Raghavan was profoundly enriching, marking a film that was truly ahead of its time.

Reception of Aks

Despite its initial lack of success, Bajpayee believes that Aks was revolutionary for its time. He noted that contemporary actors often reference the film, acknowledging its lasting influence.

Aks in Bajpayee's Career

He considers Aks among his finest performances, lamenting that groundbreaking efforts in the industry often go unrecognized. He referred to it as their 'joker' from 24 years ago, asserting that the film will endure.

Potential for Adaptation

Bajpayee feels that Raghavan's character could resonate even more today, suggesting that rather than remaking Aks, it should be adapted for modern audiences.

Working with Amitabh Bachchan

Reflecting on his experience with Mr. Bachchan, Bajpayee expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside him. He emphasized the importance of overcoming his initial awe to engage with Bachchan as a fellow actor. He credited the entire team, including cinematographer Kiran Deohans and lyricist Gulzar, for their contributions to making Aks a classic.