“All looks like a divine miracle–never thought I would survive so long ” says ‘cover-boy-icon’ Manoj Bajpayee while unveiling Society Achievers magazine — by Chaitanya Padukone
Amidst thundering applause, three National Film Awards winning acclaimed iconic-actor Manoj Bajpayee unveiled the latest Society Achievers magazine issue cover . Also present at the glittering event emceed by the vivacious Simran Ahuja were the director, producer and most of the talented cast team of lead actor Bajpai’s latest highly relatable popular social-thriller OTT film, Gulmohar ( currently streaming on Disney+HotStar) . Each of the cast present shared their sentimental connect with their characters in ‘Gulmohar’ cast-parivaar and the privilege-honour of getting to share screen-space with an iconic actor like Manoj Bajpayee.
Widely read and subscribed, ‘Society Achievers’ is India’s premier celebrity news and lifestyle magazine that covers the inspiring success stories of achievers and icons from diverse fields.
The magazine’s latest issue has an exciting cover story featuring the powerhouse performer and celebrated ‘Padma Shri’ Bollywood star-actor “screen-stealer” Manoj Bajpayee, in a James-Bond like charismatic pose. The ‘Satya’ star unveiled the magazine cover to the national media in the presence of illustrious media magnate Nari Hira, Ashok Dhamankar, Editor Andrea CostaBir, Sunil Khavnekar, impresario Mohomed Morani, Dr,Anusha Srinivasan Iyer, Manju Lodha, Simran Ahuja, Dr Yogesh Lakhani , senior film journalist-author Chaitanya Padukone and other celeb invitees.
On a nostalgic sentimental note, the modest Manoj Bajpayee spoke of his childhood and how a chance poetry reading opportunity by a teacher made him recite a Harivansh Rai Bachchan poem. “That was the day a shy actor like me realized the acting potential in me.And then there was no looking back,” he said. ” While highly praising Magna’s Ashok Dhamankar’s constant support, the articulate Manoj also added that “its wonderful to observe that OTT show Gulmohar viewers are fully identifying with my mature screen-father’s character and also with all the joyous and grief situations happening in the family”.
On a candid note, Manoj continued, “Looking back, it all looks like a miracle with divine blessings. Honestly, I never thought I would survive for this long in an (entertainment) industry which is driven mainly by box-office and also used to be driven by formula. Initially, I could not see myself beyond being the heroine’s brother or the main villain’s henchman. Standing here I am grateful to almighty God, and to all those directors who always believed in me and had faith and hope in my ability. Also I am indebted to my wife Shabana ( also known as former actress Neha) for always standing beside me and never letting me give up ,”.said the outspoken Manoj amidst applause.
The Society magazine special collector’s issue will bring to the fore the life, trials and tribulations of this grounded versatile super actor Manoj Bajpai who has never forgotten his roots and his past-struggle.
As guest social activist-philanthropist Manju Lodha rightly said, “There is nothing greater than turning the physical pages of a book or a magazine and reading the story. You should go, buy a copy of the magazine and feel the joy of true reading!”
