Saif Ali Khan is set to portray the character of a Gujarati businessman in Hindi film Baazaar, which is releasing this Friday. The 48-year old Bollywood actor was recently present in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, for the promotion of his film, where he not only spoke about Baazaar but also commented on the #MeToo movement. IBNS-TWF brings some excerpts:
What type of business Shakun Kothari (character Saif played in Baazaar) does?
He is an investor. If one watches the film, he will find out that he is a very dangerous person who has no interest in the company, employment but only profits. He is one type of corporate leader. He is a dangerous person who can pose threats to old families and businesses.
How did you prepare for the role of a Gujarati businessman?
I have done a lot of homework. I have seen photographs, lifestyles, looks of famous Indian businessmen. I checked out all of them- like the way they speak- and compiled the features to portray the character.
Any reason behind the Gujarat connection in the film?
We have brought the Gujarat connection simply like the way films are often made on businesses based in foreign countries. This time (in this film) we have chosen Gujarat. Though our film is based in Mumbai, we have focused on Gujarati businessmen. The diamond merchants are very famous in this Indian state. We have utilised it to show the uniqueness of this region.
What is your take on #MeToo campaign which is going on right now?
The workplace must be a safe place. We have to look after our women and protect them from people who are predators and molesters. It cannot happen because it is a disgusting thing. At work places, people are prone to get harassed in various ways including sexually and mentally. I think we are part of a change right now. The mindset is changing. It is going to take time but I think there will be a change.
Do you think there is a solution to this problem of sexual harassment?
One solution is that people are talking about it (sexual harassment). Now hopefully people will think ten times before behaving like this (sexually harassing women) again. I think people will think before misbehaving with a girl again.
