Paresh Rawal is known for voicing his opinions, and this time he`s tackling the subject of cinema awards. In a recent interview with entrepreneur Raj Shamani, the veteran actor spoke candidly about lobbying at the National Awards, claiming that the Oscars are no exception. He also stated that trophies and titles are not the type of acknowledgement that is most important to him.
When asked about the integrity of cinema awards, Rawal conceded that even reputable honors are not completely free of bias. “Award to mujhe, pata hi nahi hai. Ek baat main ye bhi bolun, National Award mein thoda bahut (lobbying) hoga. Utna nahi hai, jitna baaki ka awards mein hota hai. Baaki ke prize ki to baat karo or na karo, koi farq nahi padta. National Award to National Award, reputed hai,” he stated.
Paresh Rawal compared National Awards` lobbying to Oscars
Rawal further pointed out that lobbying goes beyond India`s award systems. “Lobbying to Oscar Awards mein bhi hoti hai,” he admitted, adding that the process is frequently motivated by influence and networking. “Haan bhaiya, Raj has a photo. Chalo academy ke jitne members hote hain, sabko whip up kiya jaata hai.”
While many performers take accolades as a measure of achievement, Rawal stated that true recognition comes from creative colleagues whose perspectives he values highly. “The award itself is an acknowledgement from the fraternity. But how does the fraternity represent itself? Director. When the director yells cut, and the writer says he is pleased with my job, my reward is presented. Everything stops there, including my drive and desire. “I don`t want to look beyond that,” he stated.
He emphasised whose praise actually mattered to him, saying, “Kyunki jitna mere director ko pata hai, jitna mere writer ko pata hai, jab unhone kar diya endorse, ‘Arre Paresh Rawal, behtareen,’ khatam ho gayi baat. Aur uske upar kuch gine chune log hain mere, jinmein main maanta hoon, wo agar keh ein ‘Arre kya baat hai,’ to sone pe suhaga ho jaata hai.”
Paresh received a National Award for Best Supporting Actor in 1993 for his role in Woh Chokri and Sir.
Paresh Rawal`s upcoming work
Paresh`s most recent role was as a tour guide in Agra in the film The Taj Story. The Taj Story, directed by Tushar Amrish Goel, follows a tour guide whose life is flipped upside down after a viral video of him doubting the Taj Mahal`s origins leads to his dismissal. Determined to fight back, he resolves to take the official version of history to court.
