Veteran actor Manoj Bajpayee has said he feels no disappointment despite his critically acclaimed films Joram and Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai missing out on recognition at the National Film Awards. The four-time National Award-winning actor emphasized that awards are not his driving force and that he never expects recognition for his work
Bajpayee’s Acclaimed Performances
In Joram, Bajpayee delivered a powerful performance as Dasru, a tribal man forced to flee for survival, a role that earned widespread appreciation from critics and audiences alike. Similarly, in Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai, he played a lawyer fighting against a powerful godman. While the film went on to win the National Award for Best Dialogue, his performance did not receive an individual honor.
Actor’s Response on Missing the Award
When asked about not winning for either role, Bajpayee responded:
“I really don’t expect anything from the work I do, especially from award functions. Many awards have been losing credibility over the years, and that’s another reason I never expect anything. What matters to me is that Joram is remembered as a great film. Even when I watch it, I feel that it’s not me on screen—that’s the kind of satisfaction I live for.”
He further added that award committees often change their stance, and he has no complaints about their choices.
“It’s their award, their decision. I have already moved on. Usually, I move on after the release of my films,” he said.
Latest Projects
Beyond these performances, Bajpayee continues to remain active on screen. He was most recently seen in Netflix’s Inspector Zende and the theatrical release Jugnuma: The Fable, which hit cinemas last week.