Feel lucky for still being accepted in Bollywood: Aftab Shivdasani

Aftab started his career as a child artist in 'Mr India' and did films like 'Shahenshah', 'ChaalBaaz' and others. He later began his career as an adult actor with films like 'Mast' and 'Kasoor', which did well at the box office. However, post that his films did not have a successful run at the box office, except a few like 'Awara Paagal Deewana', 'Hungama', 'Masti' and '1920 Evil Returns'. "I had a fascinating journey.u00a0

I have been lucky enough to be accepted as an actor by audience. My films may not have done exceptional business or been blockbusters, but I was fortunate enough to be accepted by public, who are my true critics," Aftab told PTI in an interview here.

"If I am still working in the industry then it's a boon. I thank public and God for this," he said. Aftab feels it's the films that failed to create a mark at the box office and not his performance. "I have worked with reputed directors and banners.

I think in my case the films have gone wrong. I have been lucky enough to get appreciated for my performances. I realised that (performance) is not enough, film has to work. Despite the films not doing well, I am still here and it feels great. Now I am focusing on commercially viable films," he said. Aftab is quite excited about his upcoming film 'Grand Masti', a sequel to comedy film 'Masti'.

The movie brings back the trio - Vivek Oberoi, Riteish Deshmukh and Aftab. "Between 'Masti' and 'Grand Masti', Riteish and I worked in two films so the connection was never lost. Whenever we used to meet socially we were good to each other," he said.

While the film, directed by Indra Kumar, is touted as an adult comedy, the actor says he is quite traditional in real life. "I am fairly traditional in my mindset. As Indians we are ingrained with certain traditions and values. We find this film a little bold but it does not take one in sleazy space, it is pure comedy," Aftab said.u00a0