Adil Hussain Discusses His Role in Netflix's 'Operation Safed Sagar'
Exploring the Depth of Acting with Adil Hussain
When discussing powerful acting, many envision loud and dynamic performances. However, true screen presence often stems from a subtle strength that captivates without the need for volume. Adil Hussain has crafted a career around this understated yet impactful presence. From his celebrated role in Life of Pi to his performance in the Norwegian film What People Will Say, the Assamese actor consistently infuses depth into every scene. He is set to return to screens in Netflix's military drama Operation Safed Sagar, debuting on August 7, where he portrays Air Marshal Vinod Patney, the former AOC-in-C of Western Air Command.
In an interview with a Media House, Hussain shared insights into his preparation for this significant role and what it truly means to be an actor.
How would you characterize your role as Air Marshal Vinod Patney in the upcoming series?
As the AOC-in-C of the Western Air Command, Air Marshal Patney had a crucial role, shouldering immense responsibilities. His innovative approaches to the challenges faced by the Air Force during that period were instrumental in giving India an advantage over its adversaries. With India under considerable pressure due to sanctions and covert actions from Pakistan, my character's mission was to defend the nation. The script honors the role and its historical significance, and while I haven't seen the series yet, I am eager for its release and confident it will stand out against international productions.
You mentioned that acting requires an internal shift rather than just external changes. What was that internal transformation for you as you prepared for this role?
In terms of physical transformation, there are limits to what can be achieved quickly. We can alter our weight or grow facial hair, but the internal shift is more complex. My background in Sainik School and the NCC provided me with insights into the discipline and body language of armed forces personnel. Had my mother not discouraged me from joining the military, I might have pursued that path. Now, I get to embody that role through my acting. This transformation takes time, and I even spoke with Air Marshal Patney to adopt some aspects of his personality and demeanor.
Your performances often exude a quiet dignity. When did you realize that this stillness is essential for great acting?
My understanding of the importance of quietude in acting developed through my training at the National School of Drama and subsequent work with various mentors. Operating from a place of calm allows an actor to connect deeply with their character. If one is not centered, it becomes challenging to access different facets of their personality. To illustrate, if a canvas is blank, it’s easy to paint on it. However, if it’s already filled with colors, adding new ones can create chaos. This skill transcends acting; it’s a life skill. The quieter one is, the more effective their performance becomes, whether in acting or in life.
Is there a particular actor whose work you admire and draw inspiration from?
In the early 1980s, I watched Papillon, featuring Dustin Hoffman and Steve McQueen, which left a lasting impression on me. Hoffman's ability to deeply embody characters inspired me greatly. Later, I was captivated by Ben Kingsley in Gandhi, who portrayed the role with such a profound inner stability that it resonated deeply with audiences. Additionally, Balraj Sahni's natural and graceful performances have always mesmerized me.
If given the opportunity, which director would you love to work with and why?
I have a long list of directors I would be thrilled to collaborate with, including both seasoned and emerging talents. I would jump at the chance to work with Ang Lee again. Other directors I admire include Gauri Shinde, Prakash Jha, Bauddhayan Mukherji, Shubhashish Bhutiani, Partho Sen-Gupta, and Iram Haq from Norway.
What is one unfulfilled wish on your bucket list?
I dream of embarking on a motorcycle journey across South America with my son, traveling from the northernmost to the southernmost points. I spent two years exploring my own country on a motorbike in the mid-90s, and I would love to share a similar adventure with him someday.