Actor Mukesh Rishi, known for his diverse roles in Indian cinema, recently discussed his admiration for director Priyadarshan’s approach to filmmaking. During the promotion of his series ‘Salakaar,’ where he portrayed Pakistani leader Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq, Rishi highlighted his flexible character-building process. He emphasized the importance of physical fitness and the significance of immersing oneself in a character’s persona.
Rishi reflected on his journey, drawing from his varied life experiences, including his time in the Air Force and Army. He underscored his focus on understanding a character’s nuances through their dialogues, citing his lack of formal acting training. Praising Priyadarshan’s meticulous directing style, Rishi noted the director’s preference for capturing authentic performances without unnecessary retakes.
In ‘Salakaar,’ Rishi’s portrayal of Zia-ul-Haq delves into the historical complexities that shaped Indo-Pak relations. The character’s pivotal role in executing Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s strategy to destabilize India underscores the show’s exploration of political intrigue and power struggles. Zia’s controversial actions, including orchestrating Bhutto’s downfall, exemplify the series’ examination of historical events with far-reaching consequences.
