In his career as an actor, Arbaaz Khan has faced his fair share of speed bumps, and the Khan sibling is more than aware of his shortcomings in front of the camera. But he is also familiar with his abilities as a successful producer and director, something that’s translated into hits Dabangg, which he produced, and Dabangg 2, which he also directed. Even while his professional life seems to be stabilising, Arbaaz is currently undergoing a rather public separation from his wife of 16 years, Malaika Arora Khan. Ever dignified, Arbaaz believes, however, that the two will remain on good terms, especially for the sake of their son, Arhaan. In conversation with Arbaaz, as he talks about his upcoming projects and sharing parenting responsibilities with Malaika:
So, how are you and Malaika coping with the separation?
Just because we’re separating, doesn’t mean we have to be worried about each other’s equations. I have a child with her, so we have to have a cordial and a great relationship. We’re very amicable with the split we had. I’m close to her side of the family, which is something that you can all see. My association with her family has been that of over 21 years, which is almost like a lifetime. I have a growing up child, so there’s a lot of parenting responsibilities and duties we have to do and it can only happen if the atmosphere between the two of us is very conducive and normal. We both are extremely mature and can handle this.
What’s Dabangg 3’s status?
It should happen by the end of the year. As of now, we’ve got dates from Salman, but they can be pushed here and there. It’s too early right now. I’m still working on the script with my team. Sonakshi (Sinha) will be a part of it, but there’s a possibility of one more actress being a part of it. It’s still in the process.
You’ll be appearing in Jeena Isi Ka Naam Hai next. What’s the movie all about?
It’s a story about love, failure, triumph; it’s a film that deals with different emotions. I have an interesting character in it. We started shooting for the film in February last year and were supposed to come out with it in November 2016. However, due to demonetisation, and other films releasing at the same time, we thought now would be the right time. I’m glad the makers have positioned the film well, so we are confident about our product.
Being a producer yourself, where do you see this film in terms of the commercial aspect?
It’s a myth that you’ll know the box office result of any film. I don’t think anybody can predict a film’s fate accurately, otherwise nobody would make unsuccessful or flop films. We only tend to know the marker sometimes.
Are you happy with the kind of roles being offered to you?
Yes. I have to make myself available for work. If I’m going to sit around only for great roles, I won’t get the right one. I’m a practical actor and work keeps me occupied. It takes care of my bills, so there are many reasons for which I work.
What makes you say you’re not a bankable actor?
I’m a known actor. I’m a recognisable actor, but I’m not a bankable actor. I’m a professional, and I get cast for certain kind of roles. Honestly, today, if I was to do a film, I don’t think any would sell on my name. So, I do feel that way. There are only five or six actors in this country, who can manage to sell films realistically.
Alright, so do you think you’re a bankable producer then?
Yes, I may be a bankable director or producer. I know where I stand, and I do have a reality check. I’m far more bankable as a producer than an actor and I’m honest about it. After so many years of being around, if I can’t be honest, then what’s the point? You should know your strength and weaknesses.
