Exclusive: Right from the time I open my eyes in the morning, till the time I go to bed, I only live and breathe cinema, says Ali Asgar

Official Instagram Account of Ali Asgar

After having participated in ‘Zara Nachke Dikha' as many as 14 years ago, actor Ali Asgar has put on his dancing shoes once again in the ongoing dance reality show ‘Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa'. Popularly known for his ‘dadi' and ‘nani' roles in ‘The Kapil Sharma Show', Alsi Asgar is definitely wearing many hats.

Mid-Day Online met up with him exclusively to know his views on ‘National Cinema Day', in which he also revealed the name of that person who ignited the artist in him.

Ali bhai, 'cinema' is a vast term altogether. What is your interpretation of the same?
For me, cinema is a dream. And, by the grace of God and the blessings of my elders, I am fortunate enough to live this dream.

Is there any artist or one incident that ignited the artist in you?

Yes! It's the one and only Mehmood saahab. I have grown up watching all his films. He and his films have formed a major source of inspiration for my life.

Can you define the role that Indian Cinema has played in your life?
Right from the time I open my eyes in the morning, till the time I go to bed, I only live and breathe cinema. I feel I am able to live my life to the fullest only because of cinema.

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Do you think commercialization of films has taken over cinema in anyway?
Not at all. In my opinion, there is room for every form of cinema. So, there is no question of commercialization of films taking over cinema.

You have been working in the industry for over 3 decades. How do you think cinema has evolved over the years?
With time, one has seen advancements in technology and also exposure to world cinema. Nowadays, cinema is not restricted to anyone. The advent of various platforms has given everyone a chance to not just live their dream, but also to give shape to their dreams.

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