Emraan Hashmi talks about his ‘clique’ and his contempt for mainstream Bollywood.
He isn’t your regular hero and the snooty lot of the film industry does little to acknowledge his success. But when it comes to box-office performance and critics’ verdict, Emraan Hashmi is far from ignored. Yet, the actor chooses not to join the bandwagon of commercial stardom. His next is ‘Raaz—The Mystery Continues’, is a horror flick, and again, an off-beat genre.

Excerpts from an Interview:

What is your take on mainstream cinema?

I find the plots of such films very substandard; I know many would say the same about my films. But I grew up watching different—more western—cinema; the Khans or other Bollywood stars have never been my reference point. So I do films that they probably never will.

Tell us about your role in Raaz—The Mystery Continues?

My character is of a painter who can predict future through his art. Through one of his works he is able to foresee that Nandita (Kangana Ranaut) will be possessed by the unnatural. Rohit is aware of his powers but can do little to control things. It’s like Spiderman—it’s his gift, it’s his curse.

What made you sign the film?

I was very excited when Mohit (Suri, director) offered me the film. Horror’s my favourite genre. Horror is risky business and Bollywood has little to boast of in that category but I trust my director’s sensibilities.

The film brings a great combination of director friend Suri, the Bhatts as producers and co-star Kangana Ranaut?

It takes a great team to make a good film. I have a lot to thank the Bhatts for; they’re the ones who launched me. Like me, she does mad characters.

Is it your lucky charm that has made the music of the film a hit?

I’ve been fortunate that all my films have had at least a track or two that were chartbusters but the music directors and sound guys should be complimented for that.

Do you believe in superstition?

I added an extra ‘a’ to my name and since then things have been good. The entrance of his house bears a huge Turkish evil eye and other Feng Shui charms. I don’t do anything on dates that add up to eight. I’m that insane.

Any more films as a ‘serial-kisser’?

I stopped three films ago but people just can’t stop talking about that. I guess it’s one of those things I’ll take to my tombstone. It will read: Emraan Hashmi—Kissed from 1979 to so-and-so date.