Mihir Bhanage (BOMBAY TIMES; December 23, 2018)

Close to two decades in the industry have changed Siddharth Jadhav, the actor. He has grown out of his comedy-hero image to do roles that no one would’ve otherwise associated him with. However, Siddharth, the person, remains unchanged. He is still the grounded person, with infectious energy that ensures there’s not a dull moment around him. Fresh from the audience’s thumbs-up for his Marathi film Mauli and awaiting the release of Rohit Shetty’s Simmba, Siddharth spoke to us about his films and working with Ranveer Singh. Excerpts:

You worked with Rohit Shetty in Golmaal (2006) and Golmaal Returns (2008),and are reuniting with him for Simmba. How has he changed over the years?
The only change in Rohit sir is that today, he is a blockbuster director. As a person, he is still the same. The reason behind him achieving so much success is that he respects everyone. From spot boys to his superstar actor, everyone is treated equally on his sets. He has been in the industry for close to 25 years and he understands people. I loved working with him again. He told me, ‘Siddhu, as an actor tu bohot grow ho gaya’. Coming from a director like him, that’s a big compliment.

You play Ranveer’s right-hand man in the film. Considering both of you were working together, the energy level on the sets must’ve been through the roof...
Not just us, I think Rohit sir is also an energetic director. And Ranveer, what do I say about him. He is a gem of a person. People see his flamboyance and energy, but I feel he is one of the finest actors of the industry. He came to the sets and lived the character. As a person too, Ranveer is all heart. Within two minutes of meeting him, he will become your friend. He is honest and what you see is what you get. I feel that these are things one can learn from him as a person.

This has been a very good phase for you. Going ahead, are there any plans in the pipeline? Also, will Simmba change things?
Frankly, I don’t know what the future holds for me. Maybe I will do another play, maybe a reality show; I don’t know. I feel I am blessed and work will come my way. One thing I will stick to is the belief I had started out with — whatever I do, I will do it to the best of my abilities.

See, I have lived life with zero expectations. I never planned anything and kept doing the roles I got. Be it comedy, serious or villainous roles, I have done a variety of roles and I hope to continue doing just that. There’s still a long way to go.