Actor Mukesh Rishi, renowned for his versatile work across various Indian film industries, recently shared insights about Priyadarshan’s unique style of directing.
Speaking during the promotions of his period streaming series ‘Salakaar’, in which he portrays the controversial Pakistani leader Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq, Rishi reflected on his approach to character portrayal. He emphasized that his process is fluid, allowing him to absorb his surroundings on set.
Rishi stated, “I have learned from my experiences; I have seen different worlds. Beyond cinema, my life also has chapters from the Air Force and Army. There were all kinds of worlds. When you have to do such things, the first thing that comes to mind is, ‘Is your body fit or not?’ because you will never see an Army officer doing this. It is in Zia’s discipline. Even if he is sitting in a certain way, these are small things, but because of sports or exercise, they are inbuilt in me.”
He went on to explain, “When I was new, even now, I don’t pay attention to that. I want to work on the skin of the character. I focus on the lines because I haven’t done a 4-5 year acting course. When the lines come in front of me, I start understanding a lot, in the sense of what the character is saying.”
Rishi also expressed his admiration for Priyadarshan, noting, “I have my own school; I learned from Priyadarshan. I have never heard Priyadarshan going for a safety take. He is so careful. If you want another take thinking you could do better, he will take it from you, but he will tell you upfront that he is happy with the first take.”
In ‘Salakaar’, Rishi’s portrayal of Zia-ul-Haq underscores the complexities of India’s historical challenges. Zia played a critical role in shaping Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s notorious strategy of “Bleed India by a thousand cuts,” a long-standing conflict aimed at furthering Pakistan’s interests. Ultimately, Zia was instrumental in orchestrating Bhutto’s framing in a case that led to his death penalty, facilitated by judges chosen specifically by him.