Exclusive Interview: Akash Thosar On 1962: The War In The Hills, Patriotism, Mahesh Manjrekar And Sairat

Updated: Tuesday, February 23, 2021, 16:30 [IST]

Ace director Mahesh Manjrekar is all set to bring his new directorial venture 1962: The War In The Hills on Disney+ Hotstar. The web series which is inspired by the true events that happened during the Indo-China war 1962, will be releasing on February 26, 2021, on the OTT platform. Ever since the trailer of the Mahesh Manjrekar directorial came out, fans can't wait to witness this war drama. Well, the show has already created a buzz amongst the masses for its star cast which includes Abhay Deol, Akash Thosar, Sumeet Vyas, Mahie Gill, Satya Manjrekar and so on.

Talking about Akash Thosar, the Sairat fame is ready to feature in a web show again after Netflix original anthology Lust Stories. After the humungous success of Sairat, the Marathi actor has featured in some of the popular projects in the last three years. Recently, Filmibeat had a candid chat with Akash Thosar, during which he talked about his character in 1962: The War In The Hills, patriotism and much more. Excerpts:

How did you prepare for the role of Kishan in 1962: The War In The Hills?

Mahesh Manjrekar sir and I meet quite often. In one of the meetings, he told me that he will be directing a web series and asked me to do Kishan's role in the show. I got excited and quickly said yes to the project. I was quite skinny then, hence, Mahesh sir told me to gain some weight and work on my Hindi more. After his advice, I gained 10 kgs, so that I could look like an army man. Mahesh sir has helped me a lot during the process.

What does patriotism mean to you? Since you are playing a soldier, did it change your idea of patriotism?

I always wanted to join the army. It has been my dream since childhood. I have appeared for Indian army recruitment twice. I have tried police recruitment and have even lived for 6 months in an army camp. If not an actor, I would have definitely been a police officer or soldier. Patriotism has always been in my heart since childhood. If you want to do something for our country, there is no need to stand on the border by holding a rifle in your hand. You can do various things in your life which could help our country to be the best in the world. I also do the same thing.

Any one particular scene from 1962: The War In The Hills which touched your heart?

I can't speak more about that scene. When I was shooting for 1962: The War In The Hills, I got emotional as I remembered young boys, who joined the Indian army at the age of 18 and sacrificed their lives for the country. Whenever I read such news, I break down in tears.

How does it feel to work with Mahesh Manjrekar again after F2?

I love working with Mahesh sir. I understand his craft and know what he wants from me. He also understands my abilities and helps me explore my craft. We are like a family.

After Sairat’s release, you preferred to work more in web series than films. Is there is any specific reason behind it?

No, it is nothing like that! I have many films lined up this year. I was not getting suitable roles, hence I took time to choose the right scripts.

Share some memories of working on Sairat!

Sairat is itself a life-changing experience for me! If we talk about the memories, I can only remember those two months before the shooting of Sairat. During that time, I worked hard on my acting skills, all thanks to Nagraj Manjule sir for being a mentor in my life.