Actor Durgesh Kumar, who is known for his performances in Panchayat and Laapataa Ladies, is elated about the re-release of Highway, the 2014 road drama directed by Imtiaz Ali. Speaking about the film’s return to the big screen, he told ETimes, “I’m feeling great! It’s wonderful to showcase my work again, and people are watching it. That makes me really happy.”
The film, starring Alia Bhatt and Randeep Hooda, has gained cult status over the years, and its re-release has sparked nostalgia among fans and industry members alike.
Reflecting on his decade-long journey in Bollywood, Durgesh Kumar admitted that the path has been challenging. “It has been very tough. People see the success of Panchayat, but the reality is that even after 12 years of work, it’s a struggle. In the last 1.5 years, I haven’t received an audition call from major production houses. I work with smaller producers who recognize my talent,” he revealed.
When asked why larger projects haven’t come his way, he responded, “I don’t know. The industry recognizes my work, but I still have to chase casting directors for auditions. Even after Highway and Panchayat, no major production house has offered me a lead role.”
Despite his talent and experience, networking has not significantly improved his chances. “Everyone knows me, yet I haven’t received any major offers. I continue to audition and get selected for some roles, but it’s unpredictable,” he stated.
Kumar’s projects have received critical acclaim, with Laapataa Ladies being the country’s official entry to the Best Foreign Language Film category at Oscars and Panchayat winning Best Web Series award. However, he feels that his contributions are often overlooked. “It’s strange. The projects have won awards, but critics rarely mention my name. Despite working in the industry for 25 years, I don’t get the credit I deserve. However, I’m happy that the audience appreciates my work.”
His clips often go viral on social media, but this has not necessarily translated into more work. “It helps with recognition, but it hasn’t led to bigger opportunities from major studios,” he noted.
Durgesh Kumar had the opportunity to work with Ravi Kishan in Laapataa Ladies. Speaking about the experience, he said, “Ravi Kishan was very supportive. After the shoot, he even called me and praised my work.”
Regarding interactions with Aamir Khan and Kiran Rao during the making of Laapataa Ladies, he shared, “I saw Aamir Khan on set a few times, but I interacted more with Kiran Rao. She is a perfectionist. She makes actors go through extensive rehearsals, breaking them down to refine their performances.”
However, he has not actively reached out to them for future projects. “No, I don’t ask for roles. I don’t even have their contact numbers. Casting directors handle everything.”
Looking ahead, Durgesh Kumar has an exciting lineup of projects. “My next film is releasing on March 21. It’s a Vikram Bhatt project where I have an important role alongside Anupam Kher. I’ve also worked on six independent projects, including one with Saif Ali Khan.”
Though he remains tight-lipped about the specifics, he praised his collaborators. “Vikram Bhatt is an excellent director. He pushes actors to perform better after every take. Anupam Sheth was great to work with as well.”
When asked about his selection process for films like Highway and Laapataa Ladies, he said, “I auditioned. Mukesh Chhabra initially called me for a role in PK, but my audition was later shown to Imtiaz Ali, who cast me in Highway. For Laapataa Ladies, casting director Ram Rawat selected me through auditions.”
He has also learned to handle rejection. “No, after 11 years, I’ve learned that rejection just means the role wasn’t meant for me.”
Having spent years in Mumbai, Kumar has now settled in the city. When asked if he is happy with his journey so far, he affirmed, “Yes. Whatever I have achieved is because of my hard work and my father’s support. My success belongs to me and my audience. The industry does what it wants, but I continue to do my work.”
