The multi-talented veteran Piyush Mishra who has spent more than three decades working across films, theatre and music, his recent interview has sparked a strong conversation around the difference in work culture between Hindi cinema and the South Indian film industries. While speaking to Curly Tales, he compared the behaviour of actors in both industries and shared why he believes the South maintains a healthier environment.
Calling Out Bollywood’s Unnecessary Stardom
During the interview, Mishra said the stardom in Bollywood has turned into something odd and difficult to understand. According to him, many actors arrive on set with long entourages of 8–9 assistants and 12–14 bodyguards which he feels is unnecessary. He questioned the need for such a big team saying, “Ajeeb sa stardom hai. They have a lot of hang-ups… Kya zarurat hai? Akeli jaan ho, aapko kaun maarne araha hai?”
And he further added that while one person handles water, another makes them drink it and the rest handle makeup or hair. He strongly felt this creates a burden on others and affects the working atmosphere.
Why He Prefers Working Down South
Later in the conversation, the actor shared how refreshing his experience has been while working in the South Indian industry. He recalled working in director S. Shankar’s film Game Changer and said the filmmaker personally came to introduce himself on set. “He is such a big director but he came to introduce himself to me… the culture there is amazing.” Here Mishra explained that people remain grounded despite massive stardom and that humility makes a huge difference.
Only One Bollywood Star He Praises
Although he criticised the Bollywood working style, Piyush Mishra did point out one actor who breaks the pattern, Ranbir Kapoor. Having worked with him in Rockstar, Tamasha and Sanju, Mr Mishra said Ranbir carries no tantrums despite being a big star. He called him his favourite among today’s actors.
While Mishra admitted that Bollywood has its share of attitude and unnecessary showmanship he also clarified that not everyone fits the same mould. His experiences in the South only highlighted the contrast but his appreciation for Ranbir Kapoor shows that humility still exists within Hindi cinema.
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