Home / Arts and Entertainment / Mani Shankar Remembers Directing Legendary Actor Om Puri in Espionage Thriller Mukhbir
Mani Shankar Remembers Directing Legendary Actor Om Puri in Espionage Thriller Mukhbir
18 Oct
Summary
- Om Puri was a "grounded, down to earth, genius of an actor" who could "manifest emotions at a belly level"
- Puri did extensive preparation and rehearsals for difficult scenes, with his eyes reflecting a range of emotions
- Puri was also a skilled mimic, effortlessly mastering language accents and impersonating common people
As the world celebrates the 75th birth anniversary of legendary actor Om Puri, the director of his acclaimed espionage thriller Mukhbir (2008) has shared fond memories of working with the iconic performer. Mani Shankar, the filmmaker, describes Puri as a "grounded, down to earth, genius of an actor" who could "manifest emotions at a belly level" in his performances.
Shankar recalls Puri's meticulous approach to his craft, noting the extensive preparation and private rehearsals the actor would undertake for difficult scenes. "The way his eyes would continually reflect shades of emotions as he performed" was a testament to Puri's mastery, as he truly "became the character in that situation faced with that challenge."
Beyond his acting prowess, Shankar also highlights Puri's remarkable talent as a mimic, able to effortlessly impersonate "auto rickshaw drivers, constables, villagers and ordinary folk," revealing an "amazing eye for emotional detail." The director even shares how Puri quickly picked up the local Hyderabadi accent while filming in the city, much to the delight of the crew.
Shankar's fond recollections of working with the legendary actor serve as a fitting tribute to Puri's enduring legacy on the 75th anniversary of his birth.
