The actor who wants to be known as the Al Pacino of the Indian film industry

Bollywood underdog Neil Nithin Mukesh on his unexpected success in south Indian cinema.

Speaking to The National over the phone, Neil said  Saaho is his biggest role yet, and that he's playing more than just the 'baddie': "there is a lot more to this than that. I don't categorise [characShow more

Neil Nitin Mukesh has come a long way since his smashing debut in 2007’s Johnny Gaddaar. The 33-year-old actor will be in Dubai this weekend for the South Indian International Movie Awards, where he has been nominated for Best Actor in a Negative Role.

He is the grandson of the late singer Mukesh, but, unlike other star kids, his claim to fame has not resulted in consistent success, although his performances have garnered critical acclaim.

His role in the 2009 film New York earned him a Filmfare Best Supporting Actor Award nomination, but as so often happens in Hindi cinema, such accolades don’t always translate to box-office gold.

Ahead of his Dubai visit, Mukesh talks to The National about trying new things, working with superstar Amitabh Bachchan and pursuing his musical streak professionally.

You’ll be in Dubai for SIIMA, at which you are nominated for your role in Kaththi – your debut in the Tamil film industry. Did you expect it?

I feel my hard work got its due. It took me 365 days to perfect my role and I had to learn a new language and adapt to a new industry. During this period, I had to let go of a lot of worthwhile Bollywood projects, but it was worth it. This was an intentional move, because as a person, I enjoy experimenting – stagnation kills my creativity. Plus there’s a beautiful crossover between Tollywood and Bollywood, and I feel you need to keep reinventing yourself to appeal to all kinds of audiences. Someday I’d like to be known as the Al Pacino of the Indian film industry, irrespective of the demographics.

Does this mean you will be doing more Tamil films?

Inshallah, yes. I don’t think any sort of adjudication should determine your life’s true calling. I’m passionate about cinema and no amount of nominations will make any lesser of an actor of me. I’m open to world cinema, I’m open to Pakistani films and Hollywood also. I’ve always maintained I’m not a star. I’m an actor, and every actor is on a journey of self-exploration.

Your upcoming films Wazir and Prem Ratan Dhan Payo are due out later this year. As usual you play the anatagonist. Do you feel you have been typecast? 

My on-screen portrayal is just the reverse of my off-screen persona. Neil in reality is the dependable, dedicated guy next door with rarely any qualms. Playing the grey-shade character was always a challenge and anything that defies the ordinary is exciting. Typecasting exists in every industry and I’ve always wanted to be a master of one trade and not a jack of all, so I’m not complaining.

You have worked alongside A-list directors and stars. Who are you looking forward to working with in the future? 

I’m keeping an open mind. The script needs to be exciting enough. However, I’d like to work with directors who have a brilliant story to tell. For now, I’m working with two of my favourite actors – Amitabh Bachchan and Salman Khan this year – so that’s off the bucket list.

Music runs in your blood. You sang for your films Jail and Aa Dekhe Zara. Any plans to sing again anytime soon?

I sing all the time, sometimes in the bathroom, too. I play the piano as well. I’m working on the blueprint for an international tour with my father planned for next year. I will also be launching a romantic number by the end of this year. You can take the musician out of me, but not the music. I’d never want to commercialise my music based on my public popularity as an actor. I’m not in favour of the gimmick of “come watch Neil Nitin Mukesh sing, who has acted in 15 films”. I want to create a separate fanbase for my music – people who are interested in it because they follow it.  I don’t want to misuse my celebrity status.

Will you also be performing at SIIMA?

I won’t be performing, no.

Do you come to Dubai often? What places do you like to visit and what do you like to do when you come here?

Yes I do visit often. I think Dubai has a very cosmopolitan feel and has imbibed the global spirit of compelling contrasts effortlessly. The city is built on a futuristic vision and is an alchemy of rich heritage. You can never run out of things to do in Dubai. My favourite places are Al Fahidi Historic District, Wafi Mall, Dubai Marina, the Gold Souk, Dubai Creek, Burj Al Arab and Dubai Ice Rink.

• The South Indian International Movie Awards will be held at the Dubai World Trade Centre on August 6 and 7. For the complete list of nominations and to buy tickets, visit, www.siima.in