For an average Indian who follows films, theatre and television closely, Kaizaad Kotwal is a familiar name.
In fact when you talk of “Vaginal Monologues”, that got great media attention a few years ago, you think of Kaizaad – he was a co-producer of the much acclaimed production.
He is also known for films like “Simpatico”, “Traffic”, “Heroine” and “Roy”, etc.
A theatre veteran, who has taught theatre, media studies and films at the Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio, Kotwal has always stressed on doing art of substance. He has however, refused to be a prisoner of any medium. Not surprisingly, now he has committed to 13 episodes of “Kota Toppers” which is being telecast on Bindaas. Here he plays a professor.
Excerpts from a chat:
You are said to be very choosy about films and television projects that you take up. What is special about “Kota Toppers” that prompted you to sign the serial?
I have been offered shows earlier which I have rejected and the main reason for saying no was that they take a lot of time, they are very lengthy and go on and on which is very difficult for me.
The main reason for saying yes to “Kota Toppers” was that there were only 13 episodes in the first season and the script also impressed me a lot.
It is a unique story and playing the character of Professor Vardhan was also very challenging. It is a complete contrast of what I am in real life. Working with these youngsters was a great experience.
Please elaborate on your role in “Kota Toppers”.
I am playing a character who runs a coaching institute for IIT aspirants in Kota. I am a sleazy, yet harmless professor whose double meaning talks leave everyone on splits.
The show is about the journey of seven IIT aspirants who are completely different from each other.
Though now you are devoting time to television, theatre remains your first love….
Theatre is my first love. That is very true.
To me this is the best form of art and difficult too because here one has to perform in front of a live audience with no retakes unlike films or television. Here you get only one chance but sadly this art is slowly diminishing, the audience has got no or very little value for it. I am still taking workshops for students who love this art.
Considering you have spent many years teaching students of drama in the U.S. and also work with theatre students here, what is the difference you find between the two?
I taught at Ohio University for about 20 years. The students of both the countries are same, they have the same attitude but the only big difference is that they have great respect and value for art. In our country students are not taught about this art at school or even college level. I must say that up to some extent the government is also responsible.
While devoting a lot of your time to theatre, you have not been averse to doing cinema. How does Indian cinema satisfy you?
I have done Hindi films side by side which have been appreciated by the audience. Doing films is less time consuming than working in daily soaps. It also gives you the chance to discover and enjoy new places as they have more outdoor shoots.
