Jackky Bhagnani: Rangrezz Is A Fabulous Film

Jackky Bhagnani on his upcoming film, his leading lady, and his flab-to-fab journey...

Any special preparations you underwent for your role in Rangrezz?
Oh yes, lots. It was a mindset change, to begin with. My character is a Maharashtrian boy from a middle class family in Lalbaug. I actually spent time there and Worli village to observe their body language. They are all well-educated people with a different view on life. Capturing that, breaking my own body language and absorbing theirs 每 it all has been extremely challenging. This was a tough lesson in acting.
Initially, Priyadarshan wasn't confident about you pulling off the role. What changed his opinion?
This question should go to him. I can't comment for him and that too about my own self. All I can say is that he is happy with my performance. It has been difficult for me to match up to his pace. He is a master of his craft, and I have only started my career. It was a fulfilling experience for me.
Why should people watch Rangrezz?
Because it's fabulous, awesome, best film of the year (laughs). I can't be modest on this one... it is my film after all! I lived with it for so long. But honestly, I feel Priyan sir has been at his best. He himself told me that he has worked on this film with a vigour similar to his first film, and I'm sure it will show. I have given my best to this film, and it's absolutely different from what I have done so far.
How is Priya Anand as a co-actor?
She is a hard-worker, for sure. She fitted very well in the team and has been very charged up all along the shoot schedule. I would say, we have been a fairly young team, so the there were a lot of positive energies working. We have worked as a team for every scene.
What after Rangrezz?
Let's first get done with Rangrezz, and we will talk about what next after that. I'll cross the bridge once I'm at it.

Define Jackky Bhagnani...
I think I'm a fast learner... at least Rangrezz has made me so. I had to unlearn a lot of things and start from ground zero.
Describe your life before and after becoming an actor?
Well, I would say it's as different as my weight-loss before/after pictures. It's been a flab to fab journey for me. Of course, it has not changed Jackky Bhagnani as a person; it's just that I feel more responsible today. More than becoming an actor, I believe it is a part of growing up.
You have changed your physical appearance a great deal in order to make it big in the industry. What were the lessons you learnt during that phase?
Determination, perseverance, no short cut to hard work and no one can bring success to your place 每 you have to earn it. It might sound too heavy but trust me, I have had my own journey and lessons so far. These are absolute honest feelings.
From being an over-weight guy who couldn't attract girls, to the current dashing dude with six-pack abs, who easily makes girls go weak at the knees 每 how has been the transformation?
Well, I hope I make girls go weak at their knees... it's a professional need, you see. If I don't, then it's too bad for me. More than that, I hope people accept me as an actor because that is what will take me ahead in the long run.
One moment that made you realize you wanted to be an actor?
I'm born into this. I have seen my dad as a producer all along, and this has always been a part of my childhood, adolescence... growing up memories. I don't know if I ever wanted to become something else.
Do you think it's a curse to be an industry kid?
Why? No not at all. It's a lovely place to be. I have enjoyed every moment.
How comfortable are you filming intimate sequences with your leading ladies?
I leave myself to my director. So they have to deal with my emotions, make me work, get the best out of me. I follow them blindly. Hence, a lot depends on my director. And logically, if the scene requires it, then I have a mechanism to handle it. I'm a very reasonable person.
Who do you think is your biggest competition in the industry?
Tough one. I have never focused on that. Right now, I'm just focusing on myself, trying to better myself.
What do you miss after becoming a celebrity?
I guess it's space, but honestly, it's all sinking in right now.

Your biggest achievement so far?
Every small achievement, tiny wins, a dot of success 每 all of it is important to me. I don't need to hold an Oscar right now to feel a sense of achievement. It's a phase of growth for me, so whatever good comes my way, I will be embracing it. As for the pangs of growth, I will take it with a pinch of salt. Miles to go before I sleep.
Are you seeing someone currently?
Ahem Ahem... Can I skip this question?
Your take on love, and live-in relationships?
Arey, is this is a Valentine's Day special interview or what? We will talk about love later. Right now, all I can say is that it is one of the basic driving forces of life. Imagine a life without love? No way!
Women's Day is approaching. What's your message for women?
Be good, be strong, be yourself, be Rangrezz. You deserve the best and the best shall come to you.