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Ranveer on going negative for ‘Padmavati’: “It’s a risky move for me”

Ranveer Singh is absolutely at the peak of his career and every well-wisher and onlooker waits for his next move. For the forthcoming Sanjay Leela Bhansali film ‘Padmavati’, the actor is going full-on negative for the first time. He recently spoke about this in an interview.

Talking to Filmfare, Singh revealed, “I’m shit scared. I’m playing an anti-hero. Only when I see the film, will I be able to assess my character. It’s a risky move for me. That’s why I took so much time to sign it. For a mainstream leading man to make a choice like this at this stage is dicey. It’s a despicable character. He’s mean.”

He went on to say, “One of my seniors, and who I believe is one of the greatest actors of all time, advised me to be careful. She told me the Indian audience is naïve. If they love a character, the love will transfer to the actor who played it. In this case, if they hate my character, the hate will be transferred to me. I felt if I had to play negative, it had to be with Mr Bhansali. Also, I cannot say no to him. If I have any standing, it’s because of his films. He gave me Goliyon Ki Raasleela – Ram-Leela at a time when my career wasn’t going great guns. He had me play Bajirao in Bajirao Mastani, a character that was ahead of my years. I’m indebted to him as an artiste. He has pushed my boundaries and got the best out of me.”

A lot like other Bhansali films, ‘Padmavati’ has been at the centre of controversy with protests and activists unhappy with the portrayal of Rajputs. Singh gave his take, “I do have strong opinions on this subject, which I wish to express. But I’ve been requested by the team to not voice it to avoid further hurdles. I channelled the angst into my performance. These are issues none of us anticipated. It’s unfortunate. Apart from all these external issues, I knew this whole process would be ball-busting. I was ready for the testing times. Sometimes, it’s difficult to pick yourself up and go back to work next morning because it’s so draining. It takes a toll on your physical and mental health. But it’s all for a greater purpose. These films are for posterity.”

Deepika Padukone and Shahid Kapoor also star in the film which is slated for release on 1st December.