Away from the emotional intensity of his performances and cinematic concert spaces, Paresh Pahuja carries a surprisingly dry sense of humour. During a rapid-fire round in an interview with us in Pune, the actor-musician moved effortlessly between self-awareness, absurdity and honesty — often within the same sentence.
Background Score and SRK Nostalgia
When asked what his life’s background score would sound like, Pahuja immediately hummed the iconic Kuch Kuch Hota Hai theme, once again revealing the deep emotional imprint Shah Rukh Khan-era cinema continues to hold over him. This spontaneous choice underscores the lasting impact of 1990s Bollywood on his artistic psyche.
Ideal Pune Itinerary
When asked about his ideal Pune itinerary, however, the answer became much simpler. “Have chai, have better chai, have more chai,” he laughed. This lighthearted response reflects his appreciation for the city’s vibrant tea culture and his own unpretentious nature.
Industry Confusions
The actor also admitted there are still parts of the entertainment industry that continue to confuse him despite spending years inside it. “Numbers,” he says instantly. “Box office numbers.” His candid admission highlights the enigmatic nature of commercial success in cinema, which even seasoned professionals grapple with.
The Unglamorous Reality
Perhaps the most revealing moment came when Pahuja was asked about the least glamorous part of his profession — a question he answered without romanticising the struggle. “Sitting around for six months and waiting for work,” he says. “The uncertainty is the most non-glam thing.” And yet, like most artists who survive long enough in entertainment, he seems oddly at peace with that instability too. “I think we thrive on that,” he adds. This perspective offers a rare glimpse into the resilience required to sustain a career in the performing arts.
About the Author: Toshiro Agarwal is a journalist with Pune Times and writes entertainment and lifestyle features, news and interviews.
