EXCLUSIVE: Pankaj Tripathi on OMG 2 and Sunny Deol starrer Gadar 2 co-existing: It’s a win-win situation for everyone

Pankaj Tripathi is currently basking in the success of his recently released film OMG 2. The film also stars Akshay Kumar and Yami Gautam. Directed by Amit Rai, the social-comedy sheds light on the importance of inclusion of sex education in syllabus. Given the bold subject, the film had to undergo modifications and was given A certificate. It was also pitted against Sunny Deol starrer Gadar 2 at the box office. Despite limitations, the film has managed to mint money and is all set to enter the 100 cr club.

In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Bubble, Pankaj Tripathi expressed disappointment as OMG 2 is only A certified. He also shared his thoughts on film co-existing with Gadar 2 and Jailer. Excerpts:

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A post shared by Pankaj Tripathi (@pankajtripathi)

OMG 2 is receiving rave response. Many people are supporting, petition is being signed that it should be UA-certified, and everyone should watch it.  Were you disappointed as the film was not certified U/A?

I was surprised that the film only got A certification. Because we knew that there is nothing in the film that can be tagged as nudity. There is neither violence nor characters are touching each other inappropriately. It is a bold subject that is considered taboo and there should be a discussion on it. But unfortunately, it does not happen. I also want the movie to be UA so that children can watch and it reaches out to the people.

Your bond with Akshay Kumar in the film was a little emotional but also funny. How was the equation off-screen?

It is the wonder of Amit Rai’s writing. He has written each scene so beautifully, that it was fun doing it with Akshay Kumar. In fact, Akshay only recommended my name to Amit Rai for this film. So, I thank him for choosing such a subject and having faith in us. He told me that we will do a good job. As we witness, the film is doing great business at the box office.

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A post shared by Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar)

When it was announced that OMG 2 and Gadar 2 will release simultaneously, people thought that only one film might work. But both the films are having a phenomenal run at the box office. Do you think that both films can co-exist? 

Absolutely! If the film is good and audiences are liking it, then even three films can co-exist. This weekend, we witnessed the highest footfalls of all time in the history of Indian cinema and it’s a great achievement. I read a letter that stated around 3 crore people visited the theatres to watch OMG, Gadar 2, and Jailor. This is a good time for our film industry. After Covid, the audience is coming to the theatres, and all the releases are minting good money. Overall, it’s a win-win situation for everyone.

Pankaj Tripathi on OMG 2 clash with Gadar 2

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You have focused on choosing quality projects over quantity. You have become a star from an actor. People think that if Pankaj Tripathi is there, the film is bound to work. Does this come with added responsibility or pressure when you now choose projects?

Earlier, I used to do cameos or small many times. But now I am concerned that if I do it and it appears in the promo, people will hope that I am headlining the film. If that is not the case, they get disappointed. Although now I am not offered much cameos. All the roles that come to me are good, and I play a pivotal role. But there is no such pressure, it is a responsibility. If people start praising and hope that something interesting will come, then the responsibility increases, that we are a part of the correct project.

Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: Pankaj Tripathi HILARIOUS story of meeting Sunny Deol will leave you in splits

Rashita Sahni

I make celebrities talk, laugh & spill the tea!
Film & Fashion Journalist | Bombay