As the much-loved Sony LIV show Gullak enters its fifth season, lead actor Jameel Khan reflects on the show's enduring appeal. He explains, "This is my story, your story, that of the middle class; it's relatable for it picks up relevant issues, is high on emotional quotient and fun factor. It takes you on a nostalgic trip and reminds you of what you are missing."
Personal Connection to Santosh Mishra
Jameel sees a lot of his own father in his character, Santosh Mishra, and infuses his own virtues and ideologies into the role. Reprising the part season after season is not difficult for him, but he notes, "I have to ensure that I don't let my guard down and meet audiences' expectations." Despite his extensive body of work in theatre and film, Gullak has been a game-changer, bringing unparalleled love and adulation.
Typecasting and Career Choices
Jameel laughs about being typecast after the show's success: "Sure, only when something succeeds people try to trap you into a pigeonhole. I have been flooded with offers to play a father, heroine ka baap, hero ka baap, villain ka baap, this baap that baap, and I always tell them, can you top up Santosh Mishra baap?" Throughout his career, he has said no more often than yes. Initially hesitant about Gullak because he saw OTT as akin to television, he is now grateful he agreed after persuasion from TVF, whose creative team had seen him on stage years earlier.
Theatre and Mentorship
Recalling his association with Naseeruddin Shah, who often reprimands him for quitting theatre, Jameel says, "Rightly so, each time I watch a play I too kick myself." He credits the institution of acting for his growth. Like his mentor, he avoids self-promotion and has no PR machinery. "Instead of posting frivolities on social media incessantly, I would let my work do the talking," he asserts.
Working with Anurag Kashyap
Jameel would love to work with Gangs of Wasseypur director Anurag Kashyap again but prefers that Anurag make the call rather than pestering him. He hails Anurag as a unique director whose working style is "undefined" and notes his USP: "Perhaps, no other director leaves so much room for improvisation and organic acting."
Career Retrospective and Future
Looking back at projects like Mandala Murders, Srikanth, Bada Naam Karenge, and upcoming ones like Jugaadu and a Sooraj Barjatya film, Jameel feels no regret. "I am happy but not entirely content. The day I feel fully satisfied, it would be the end of my career. I feel sky is the limit," he observes. He advocates for versatility in roles and encourages makers to experiment with any genre.
Spreading Love and Tolerance
As he spreads happiness through Gullak, Jameel's personal gullak is full of love and gratitude. In divisive times, he reminds, "India has always exemplified love and tolerance, and we must coexist with pyar mohabat." Just like the Mishra family on screen, minor niggles aside.
