Rajesh Kumar, popularly known for his role as ‘Rosesh’ in the iconic series Sarabhai vs Sarabhai, has recently made headlines for his candid remarks about the film industry. In his most recent appearance on Aftab Puntoo’s YouTube channel, Kumar discussed the dynamics on film sets, particularly focusing on the class distinctions that exist between lead actors and supporting cast members.
During the conversation, Kumar highlighted a troubling aspect of the industry: lead actors often refrain from rehearsing scenes with the supporting cast. He noted that discussions on set primarily involve a select few, including the director, cinematographer, and main actors, while the broader team seemingly goes unheard. Remarkably, Rajesh shared his insights about the industry’s hierarchy and the adverse effects it has on film production.
Kumar mentioned that while he has not worked with Amitabh Bachchan, he has heard that Bachchan prefers to engage with the supporting cast during rehearsals. However, he claimed that many other prominent actors do not extend this courtesy, often favoring private practice sessions with writers or assistants instead. He expressed concern over this behavior, stating that it can detract from the film’s overall quality, as the interactions between lead and supporting actors are vital for a cohesive performance.
Additionally, he pointed out that insecurity among some lead actors can lead to them intentionally creating obstacles for their co-stars. He referred to instances where supporting cast members receive their lines only at the last moment, which can leave them scrambling to adapt while the lead actor maintains their focus solely on their own performance.
Kumar recounted a personal experience that exposed this hierarchy further. He reflected on a time when a well-known actor did not acknowledge him at all on set, and instead questioned an assistant about his actions. This incident underscored the discomforting reality of how some lead actors operate within the industry, reinforcing the class system that Kumar passionately seeks to dismantle.
In contrast to these negative experiences, Rajesh Kumar took a moment to celebrate the positive, recalling his time working with actress Dimple Kapadia. He praised her for her genuine interest in the lives of her co-stars, making an effort to connect with everyone around her rather than isolating herself as a star. This refreshing approach stood out to Kumar, who shared how Kapadia shifted the focus from her accolades to broader conversations about the ensemble cast.
Through these reflections, Rajesh Kumar sheds light on the stark contrasts within the film industry, where a divide exists between prominent stars and the supporting talent. His observations encourage a discussion about the need for greater collaboration and respect among all actors, regardless of their screen time or fame.