EXCLUSIVE: Lalit Prabhakar on challenging limits and earning the audience's trust

In the last few years, Lalit Prabhakar has been part of projects in multiple genres - from a period drama, to an action entertainer and more. The actor says that it's the urge and drive to explore new things that keeps him going. "For me, earning the trust of the audience is important because then they'll also be curious to know what I am doing next.If they feel that I do projects that have something different that the regular stuff, they will also come and watch them," he says.
The Medium Spicy actor also attributes his success to the filmmakers he's worked with. He says, "From Sameer Vidwans to Paresh Mokashi, Sarang Sathaye, Dnyanesh Zoting and Mohit Takalkar, each director has shaped my approach and outlook towards work. It's because of them that I am where I am today."


On returning to stage after a hiatus...
Lalit is currently rehearsing for Ghanta Ghanta Ghanta Ghanta Ghanta, a play directed by Mohit Takalkar and adapted from Sam Steiner's English script Lemons Lemons Lemons Lemons Lemons. This marks his reunion with Takalkar who he has worked with in two films - Medium Spicy and Toh, Ti Ani Fuji. Lalit shares, "It's a two-character play but there are multiple facets to it- personal, social, political. For me, it doesn't matter if the play is commercial or experimental but right now, doing an experimental play is also feasible for me as I can't given the kind of time required for a commercial play. Working with Mohit in a play was on my list because his understanding and presentation of the medium is fantastic."


On his work process...
Lalit says that his approach is not restricted to getting a plum role for himself. "I also look at the complete project and give it my best," says the Anandi Gopal actor. Ask Lalit what can be done to help Marathi cinema reach more people and he replies, "I am not an expert but I think every film is different. You can't make a film that everyone loves. Similarly, the marketing plan of a film should also change according to it's subject and the target audience. Of course that will require a certain budget and willingness from everyone involved, but it's doable." Lalit will soon be seen in Makarand Mane's Khillar in a rugged avatar. "It's the first time I am working with Makarand and Rinku Rajguru. The film is based in the rural part of Maharashtra and deals with bullock-cart racing. I am also doing a film with Satish Rajwade soon," he shares.