• Manoj Bajpayee earned numerous accolades to his name.
• Anubhav Sinha had described him as an actor of “Naseer-level.”
• After Bajpayee reached Mumbai, he was immediately taken to Saloon.

Manoj Bajpayee, one of India’s most revered actors, has earned numerous accolades, including a National Film Award and the Padma Shri. However, his journey to Mumbai was far from glamorous.

In a recent interview with Siddharth Kannan, filmmaker Pankaj Parashar revealed how he played a pivotal role in bringing Bajpayee to Mumbai, describing an anecdote that showcases the actor’s humble beginnings.

Parashar shared that director Anubhav Sinha recommended Bajpayee, describing him as an actor of “Naseer-level,” referencing veteran Naseeruddin Shah. Despite his talent, Bajpayee couldn’t afford a flight to Mumbai. “We asked him to borrow money and come,” Parashar recalled.

Upon Bajpayee’s arrival, Sinha immediately decided he needed grooming. “Anubhav said, ‘We’ll have to take you to the beauty parlor.’ They gave him a shampoo and a facial before bringing him to my house,” Parashar said. When Parashar finally met him, he jokingly remarked, “From what angle does he look like Naseer?” Despite initial doubts, he offered Bajpayee a start, telling him to begin work the following Monday.

The filmmaker also shared how Sinha’s persistence led to their collaboration, ultimately bringing Bajpayee into the spotlight. From borrowing money to becoming an acclaimed actor, Bajpayee’s story is one of resilience and determination.

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