In an exclusive interview, Bijay J Anand reflects on his career, starting with the love he received for his role in ‘Pyaar Toh Hona Hi Tha‘ and being away from the industry for 17 long years. He also spoke about the mixed reactions his film, ‘Adipurush‘ received from the audience. Despite not meeting everyone’s expectations, Bijay expressed pride in being part of the film and his willingness to work with Om Rautagain.Excerpts…
You received a lot of love from the audience for your role and performance in ‘Pyaar Toh Hona Hi Tha’. Did you anticipate it?
I had received love even before ‘Pyaar Toh Hona Hi Tha’ and that was for my film, ‘Yash’. Did I anticipate it? I don’t know if I did. All I can say is that I definitely didn’t crave it. I think that being an actor, you have to do your job and if fame and adulations come with it, you should humbly accept it. But if you’re craving for that fame and adulation, you will always be unhappy as a human being.You were away from the industry for over 17 years. What kept you busy?
During the 17 years I spent away from acting, I established an art consultancy business, developed close ties with the MF Hussain family, and served as an advisor to esteemed banks such as HSBC Private Bank, catering to numerous high-net-worth clients. The demands of setting up and managing the art business kept me extensively occupied, affording me the opportunity to travel to 72 countries. Amidst this period of professional diversification, I discovered a passion for yoga, actively pursuing it and eventually becoming a teacher. These 17 years were truly eventful, marked by a variety of experiences and personal growth.

What prompted you to make your comeback into films?
I had firmly decided against returning to acting until the offer for Siya K. Ram came my way. Nikhil Sinha approached me with the role, expressing that it wasn’t just about finding an actor for Janak but that he saw me embodying Janak in every aspect. This unique compliment, coupled with my realization that, as a teacher, I had been traveling the world to share my knowledge, made me see the project as a platform to explain Janak’s character and the virtues he learned from Ashtavakra.
Motivated by this perspective, I decided to take on the project. Once I immersed myself in acting again, it became irresistible to stop. The recognition I received, including being nominated for Best Actor for my role in Siya K. Ram led to a flood of offers for subsequent projects. Without hesitation, I went on to work on Karanjeet Kaur, Shershaah, and numerous other films and projects, unable to resist the pull of the industry after that initial comeback.

Are there any projects you regret not being a part of?
While there was a substantial Hollywood project offering me a leading role, I harbor no regrets about not securing it. I firmly adhere to the belief that everything in life unfolds for a reason. Whether it’s success or setbacks, I maintain the perspective that each experience is ultimately in my best interest. Consequently, I carry no regrets for the opportunities I may not have obtained or any perceived shortcomings in my life. I find contentment in embracing the present, grateful for what I have, be it little or much, as I am truly happy with the path life has charted for me.
You were a part of big projects like Shershaah and Adipurush. While Shershaah received widespread appreciation, Aadipurush received mixed reactions from the audience. What do you think went wrong?
I believe both Shershaah and Adipurush were exceptional projects, and I take great pride in being associated with both of them. The directors and scripts for both films were outstanding. Regarding Adipurush, as you mentioned, there were varied reactions – some appreciated it, while others didn’t. At its core, Adipurush was a bold and innovative experiment, stepping away from the conventional portrayal of Ram shaped by Ramanand Sagar and challenging the established imagery of Ram, Sita, and Lakshman.
Director Om Raut, who was also financially invested in the project, took creative liberties to present a different perspective. I think it’s crucial to appreciate his boldness and courage in putting his money and reputation on the line to share a unique point of view. In an industry where many opt for safe projects aimed at financial success, Om Raut’s passion for showcasing a story in a different light is commendable. While Adipurush may not have achieved the expected commercial success, I am extremely proud to have been a part of it, and I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to work with Om Raut again in the future.