Kannada film director Indrajit Lankesh, who is preparing to launch his son Samarjit Lankesh as a lead actor in his upcoming film "Gowri," discusses the decision-making process behind casting his son, the challenges they encountered, and the valuable lessons learned. Here are some insights:
- Was it always the plan to debut your son as a lead actor in "Gowri"?
Initially, I did not have any intentions of collaborating with Samarjit. My aim was for him to carve out his own niche in the industry, and he was actively pursuing that path. Samarjit underwent training in theater, honed his acting skills in New York, and also gained experience as an assistant director on various Kannada films. Throughout my career, I have been passionate about introducing fresh talent to the film scene. When the script for "Gowri" came together, I felt that Samarjit was adequately prepared and well-suited for the role. We even held auditions and a screen test to finalize his role.
- How do you view nepotism in the film industry?
In my view, being part of a film family has posed more challenges than advantages for Samarjit. While star kids often benefit from an existing fan base established by their famous parents, they inevitably face the daunting task of building their own reputation atop that foundation. Moreover, there is a persistent tendency to compare star kids to their accomplished parents. It is crucial for them to step out of the shadow cast by their parents and forge their own distinct path, which is no easy feat. Personally, I can relate to this struggle, having been constantly measured against my father, P Lankesh. It's unrealistic to match his level of excellence in writing, directing, or journalism. Instead, I charted my own creative journey focused on what I am passionate about.Regarding Samarjit, I am not an actor and therefore lack a significant fan base for my son to lean on. As a director and journalist, I have faced numerous controversies and backlash for my outspoken opinions. Samarjit's task is to distance himself from my controversial reputation and embark on a fresh journey.
Working with Samarjit has been an enlightening experience for me. We encountered creative differences as his theatrical background influenced his meticulous approach to character portrayal on screen. His realistic method and attention to detail in acting and screenplay revealed my own limitations due to my lack of involvement in theatre. Samarjit's dedication to acting over fame or glamour is commendable, and his intense, focused persona shines on camera.
As the release date nears, I find myself more nervous than Samarjit. This film has been a significant challenge for me, especially as I am introducing my son as a new talent. Despite the pressure, I believe in the strength of this story and consider it my best work yet.The focus in the film industry is on the director and producer, but being an actor offers a favorable position. If you hone your talent, deliver consistently, and establish yourself as a skilled actor, you will always find opportunities. This is an advantageous position to be in.
