Rapper and composer Badshah’s loyal fan base has followed him through every phase of his career: Be it his provocative lyrics from songs like Nothing Dirty and Vroom Vroom, to his more universal party tracks like Let’s Nacho, his fans have only grown in number. It isn't surprising that his foray into acting is eagerly awaited.
The well-known musician, who has previously rejected many Bollywood offers, will now be seen on the big screen in the Sonakshi Sinha-starrer Khandaani Shafakhana. In a candid chat, the musician speaks about why he shied away from acting until now, his fans, being offered sex-related projects, and more.
Excerpts from the interview:
This isn’t the first time you have received offers for acting. Why did you change your mind?
I had reservations this time too. I read the script and liked it, but I didn’t think of taking it up. I told them I would think and let them know. (Producer) Bhushan Kumar told me that I’ve been finalised for the film and that I should go on the sets the next day. The atmosphere there was easy-going, and so it just happened.
What kind of acting offers did you get before, and what made you say no them?
I was offered Vicky Kaushal’s role in Lust Stories. But I felt “how can I do this?” When I saw it, I felt Vicky was exceptionally good.
I was offered Diljit Dosanjh’s role in Good News but things didn’t work out. Diljit is a better actor than me.
I think Khandaani Shafakhana was a more comfortable setting for me. Coincidentally, I had told Sonakshi two years ago that I am getting a lot of acting offers and she told me to take them up. I was like ‘I don’t know acting,’ but she said that I’ll learn.
do filmmakers want to tap into your fan following and are hence giving you acting offers?
I have a pan-India fan following and producers want to tap into it and leverage it. Sadly, the history of singers becoming successful actors isn’t good, except Diljit paaji. I hope things go well.
When you started off as a singer, did you ever have any interest in acting?
No. I had never thought of acting. I used to feel it is very difficult. But I am grateful for receiving such big offers. My primary objective was, is, and will always be music.
Do you think this film was relatively easy because you are playing a singer?
Yes. That was the easiest. The character is very loud. You want to love and hate him at the same time, but you can’t ignore him.
How difficult was it to face the camera as an actor?
I've no clue where the camera is? When you act, you realise acting is not that difficult. But the other technicalities like the mark, angle, light, etc are. So you don’t just have to memorise your lines, but keep these in mind.
A section of audience doesn't like bold lyrics. Do you go by your choice or that of the audience to associate yourself with a song?
I do a lot of things as an entertainer. But as a part of society, I have some responsibilities and I don’t do certain things. But there’s a perception. And it’s up to you and your acceptance for something. If I am purposely associating myself with something that the audience doesn’t like, then it is my fault.
Will you be more careful with the lyrics?
I’m careful. When you are successful, you lose it sometimes.
Are there any offers for a film to be made on your life?
There are offers, but I feel it is too soon. Similarly, I feel the biopic on MS Dhoni sir’s life came way too early; he is still playing so well. Rappers have become cool.
