Naseeruddin Shah is an institution: Bhojpuri star Ravi Kishan

Dec 28, 2011 IANS

New Delhi, Dec 28 (IANS) Bhojpuri star Ravi Kishan, who will be seen with Naseeruddin Shah in Hriday Shetty's "Chaalis Chauraasi", is in awe of his co-star and says that the veteran is an institution in himself.

"Naseer is an institution in himself. He has over two decades of experience in the field of acting and I have learnt a lot from him while shooting for the film. I am completely in awe of him," Ravi told IANS on phone from Mumbai.

"He is very honest, humble and completely loyal towards his work. Money is secondary in his life. He is frank, blunt and an unpredictable actor. Working with him was like going back to school and I really enjoyed that," he added.

The story of the film revolves around four cops, Pankaj Suri aka SIR (Naseeruddin), Albert Pinto aka PINTO (Kay Kay Menon), Bhaskar Sardesai aka Bobby (Atul Kulkarni) and Shakti Chinappa aka SHAKTI (Ravi Kishan), who see an opportunity to a great future when they are given a mission to pull off.

Things take a twist when another policeman stops their van en route and use them as their backup to catch a gangster.

Ravi, who has done over 160 films in Bhojpuri, has yet to achieve that feat in Bollywood, but the actor is happy that he is getting recognition.

"The journey has been tough and full of struggle. There were times when I didn't have any money, but it feels great that I am getting my due now. People have started recognising me and respecting me; I hope this continues in 2012," he said.

"Bhojpuri cinema is economically weak compared to Bollywood, but it has helped me train and work hard to carve a niche for myself," he added. Ravi is known for his roles in films like "Tanu Weds Manu", "Phir Hera Pheri", "Well Done Abba" and "Raavan" among others.

"I am satisfied with the way my career has shaped up. Working here is relaxing as I don't have to use much of my brain and stay stress free as opposed to Bhojpuri cinema where I write, I sing and also act," said Ravi.

The actor feels criticism is part and parcel of the profession.

"I have got used to the criticism. Appreciation and criticism are part of the profession, but one has to move on. There were times when there was nobody with me, but now people know me and love me," he said.

However, Fridays still give him jitters and insecurity.

"Every Fridays I face insecurities as to how people will accept my work, it still gives me jitters," he said.

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Chaalis Chauraasi