Vikrant Massey on playing Sri Sri Ravi Shankar: I can only attempt to be him
Actor Vikrant Massey seems to be on a mission to outdo himself with every role After leaving audiences amazed with his performance in ’12th Fail’ and ‘Sector 36’, the actor will now take on the challenging task of playing a visually impaired in ‘Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan’. However, it’s his recent announcement – a biopic on spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, that has sparked even more curiosity and excitement among fans.
Titled ‘White’, the film not only traces the life of the spiritual leader, but also focusses on his role in ending Colombia’s prolonged civil war.
In an exclusive chat with India Today, Vikrant Massey discussed playing the Indian guru. He also opened up about meeting him at his ashram last year. “Every moment spent with him is going to be etched for the rest of my life. I am so glad I have that access, and I can be with him, around him. I start shooting for White in August,” he said
Giving details about the film and the plot, the actor further shared, “It’s a very important part of his life and world history. Unfortunately, not a lot of people, in India especially, know about his contribution towards peace and restoring world peace in Colombia. And he’s not just sort of contributed there, he’s done much, much more. Through this film, we actually want to talk about all the other things that he’s done, how he’s contributed [towards society]. It’s an honour to play him. I have said this earlier that I can never be him. I can only attempt to be him. And I hope my attempt is as sincere as his attempts.”
Directed by Siddharth Anand, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s biopic ‘White’ is touted as a global thriller inspired by real-life events. Apart from this film, Vikrant Massey also has ‘Don 3’ and ‘Ramayana’ in the pipeline, shooting for which will begin next year. With such a packed schedule, we asked the actor if he still gets called out for his ‘break’ post on Instagram, which immediately broke the internet. Many criticised the actor for sharing the statement as a publicity stunt.
With a chuckle, the actor said, “Yeah, I keep reading that on every post, actually. But I have nothing to tell them. I had come out the very next day to clear it out. I mean, some of them are bullies and some of them really want to evoke a response, and I don’t care two hoots about that. I mean, people who care definitely knew what I meant and why I did what I did, and that’s about it.”
Vikrant Massey’s next release ‘Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan’, which marks Shanaya Kapoor’s acting debut, will arrive in theatres on July 11.
