Root cause

Manpriya Singh

Forty years after his parents moved from Moga to Pune, Dev Singh Gill is back to feel his roots. “Well, don’t they say you can take a boy out of Punjab but not Punjab out of the boy? So like any other Sardaar, I always had this urge, how can I contribute to my people, my community and my roots,” a question he considered every now and then while playing the bad boy in big budget films down South from Magadheera to Lingaa and lately even Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (he plays Abdul Khaliq).

“I had worked with big stars from every state, Cheeranjeevi to Rajnikanth to Mohan Lal.” Well, in Punjab it boils down to the Manns starting with Gurdaas Maan and moving onto Harbhajan Mann.

That explains his role in Saadey CM Saab, due for a May 27 release. “Once again I play a villain but I am glad that for my Punjabi debut I could bring back my experiences from Southern industry.” As to how grey are his shades are yet to be known but he promises a strong character. “I must be the only villain to have an introductory song shot on him. This usually happens to Bollywood heroes.”

Back to Punjab

To begin with, my dadi is a big fan of Harbhajan Mann. Moreover, I wanted to do a movie which my family could relate to... It feels so good to be here, everybody is a warrior. Back in South, because of language barrier I keep quite and keep to myself. You mis-spell a word and media and people don’t forgive you.

Movie business? Nothing doing

The shift to Mumbai happened out of a very a sensible decision to pursue Mumbai. He laughs, “I first tried for Gladrags, was not even a finalist. I went onto join acting classes, was a failure there too...some where I think all the failures made me stronger.” Theatre happened and shortly afterwards his initial breaks. He laughs, “My father always considered movie business to be good for nothing. He has always wanted me to pursue business studies or take over his business.” We are sure, most Punjabi parents and children can identify with that one! “But my mother supported me and whatever I am is, courtesy her.” As a little token of thanksgiving, he dedicates the song Sheran Da Raaj on Mother’s Day.

Next—Sardaar Ji Returns

In between there’s a mention of the much awaited Diljit Dosanjh’s sequel to Sardaar Ji.

No amount of prodding will make him give away anything about the film or even his character. “Right now we are here for Saade CM Saab.” Well, he can’t really be playing the bad boy in there? “It’s a comedy film so there is no scope for a villain.”

manpriya@tribunemail.com