Shekhar Suman's journey in Bollywood is a testament to his versatility and willingness to embrace diverse roles. In an exclusive interview, Shekhar reflects on his early career, highlighting his memorable collaborations with legendary actors like Rekha and Madhuri Dixit. What makes his story particularly intriguing is the contrast between the star power of his co-stars and his own unassuming approach to acting.
One of the most striking aspects of Shekhar's career is his ability to work seamlessly with established stars while maintaining his own sense of professionalism. When asked about his experience working with Rekha in the film Utsav, Shekhar reveals a fascinating dynamic. Despite Rekha's status as one of the biggest names in Bollywood, she never carried herself as a superstar. Instead, she created a comfortable environment for Shekhar, making him feel at ease even before shooting began.
Shekhar credits Rekha's down-to-earth nature for setting the tone for the entire production. "She did it, right from the start. When there’s an actor who walks around with a paraphernalia and acts like, ‘Look at me, I’m a big star,’ that becomes a problem. But she was away from all that. She’d sit next to me and make me comfortable. So, even before I gave my shot, I was very, very comfortable,"
This anecdote highlights a crucial aspect of Shekhar's approach to acting: his ability to create a collaborative and supportive atmosphere on set. It's a quality that sets him apart from many of his peers and contributes to his success in the industry.
Shekhar's willingness to take on supporting roles, even when they featured strong female leads, showcases his dedication to his craft. Whether it was Utsav, Manav Hatya, or Jyoti Sarup's Rehguzar alongside Simple Kapadia, he embraced every opportunity that came his way. "I just picked everything that came my way. Utsav was such a delight. To be chosen as the hero opposite Rekha! She was the bigger star and had a bigger role, but I was equally important and noticed,"
Shekhar's ability to find comfort in the most challenging situations is a testament to his resilience and professionalism. His experience working with Rekha and Madhuri Dixit, among others, demonstrates his capacity to adapt to different working styles and environments. "I remember working with Madhuri in my second film. The director called me and asked, ‘Would you work with a new girl?’ I said, ‘If Rekha could work with me, why would I not work with a new girl?’"
Shekhar's journey in Bollywood is a fascinating exploration of the industry's dynamics and the power of professionalism. His ability to create a comfortable and collaborative environment on set, even with established stars, sets him apart as a versatile and dedicated actor. As he continues to navigate the complexities of the film industry, Shekhar's story serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a grounded and professional approach to acting.
