Versatility Has Made Paresh Rawal One Of The Best Actors In The Indian Film Industry
By Tanveer Zaidi (Actor–Author–Educationist)
There’s no denying that PK, starring Aamir Khan, stands out as one of the finest films in acclaimed director Rajkumar Hirani’s career. Co-written by Hirani and Abhijat Joshi, the film explores the journey of an alien stranded in India, baffled by the complexities of religion, caste, and social norms, ultimately raising profound questions about humanity.
Interestingly, two years before PK captivated audiences, Umesh Shukla’s OMG: Oh My God! had already delved into similar themes. Fronted by the versatile Paresh Rawal, the film struck a chord with viewers through its bold take on religious practices and blind faith.
OMG was adapted from the popular Gujarati play Kanji Virudh Kanji. In a media interaction, Paresh Rawal revealed a fascinating detail: Rajkumar Hirani and Abhijat Joshi attended several performances of the play during the development phase of PK.
“When PK was in the works, Saumya Joshi—a brilliant Gujarati writer—would attend the shows with his brother Abhijat and Raju Hirani. They were present at nearly every performance. We used to introduce fresh perspectives in each show,” Paresh shared.
Widely regarded as one of the finest actors in Indian cinema, Paresh Rawal has earned immense respect for his remarkable range. From iconic comedic roles like Baburao Ganpatrao Apte in the Hera Pheri series to intense portrayals in serious films such as Sardar, where he played Vallabhbhai Patel, Rawal’s adaptability is unmatched.
His masterful comic timing has left audiences in stitches in films like Welcome, Hungama, and Chup Chup Ke, while his dramatic work in films like Sir, Woh Chokri, and Sardar has earned critical acclaim.
He has been honored with numerous awards, including the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor and the Filmfare Award for Best Performance in a Negative Role.
With a filmography that spans more than 240 films, Paresh Rawal continues to be a pillar of Indian cinema. Esteemed peers like Naseeruddin Shah and Shabana Azmi have often praised his talent and commitment to his craft.
Beyond acting, Rawal has successfully ventured into other arenas, including music and politics, reflecting his multifaceted personality and drive.
In summary, Paresh Rawal’s illustrious career is a blend of comedic genius and dramatic prowess, firmly establishing him as one of the most revered and enduring figures in the Indian film industry.
