Manoj Bajpayee is ridiculously youthful-looking for a 57-year-old. He’s trim, his face glows, he’s light on his feet. His body of work is already impressive and curated, and his physical self suggests the same level of care and attention. “You sacrifice a lot and don’t compromise with your daily routine,” Bajpayee tells The Nod. Outside, the sun is harsh enough to melt concrete. Inside, Bajpayee is cool and collected. It’s a rare day when he isn’t on a film set, getting under the skin of a character. There’s work to be done and no time to waste.
From the beginning, there’s been a palpable hunger in Bajpayee’s progression—an unwavering journey towards excellence that has been present ever since he burst onto the scene in the mid-1990s. Over the years, the actor became the name to go to for films and shows that demanded an assiduous unpacking of characters with his ability to not just inhabit a part but also make its impact linger beyond the end credits. Today, he’s at the top of his game, occupying a position that once was the late Irrfan’s, straddling mainstream, indie, and middle-of-the-road projects. Read our full cover story with the actor here.
