The name "Sanjay Bhol" echoes through the world of Odisha's Jatra especially during the ongoing Khandagiri Mela, and it's a name that people yearn for. He is popular for his impactful dialogues with baritone voice. He's the kind of actor whose mere presence on stage sends shivers down the spine, the villain you love to hate. People call him the villain of Jatra world – Jollywood. He's currently electrifying audiences at the Khandagiri Jatra, playing the main antagonist in Jatra Shree Biswadarbar's play, "Kahibaku Laja Sunile Papa" ("It's Shameful to Say, Sinful to Hear"). Crowds are flocking to see him, proving his alluring pull on the audience.
We at Prameya had a chance to catch up with this ‘Sanjay’ at the ongoing Khandagiri Mela. Here's a our gist of the conversation, revealing the man behind the intimidating smokescreen:
A tee-a-tee with Sanjay Bhol
- Question: Your name alone creates a buzz. People say just hearing "Sanjay Bhol" makes them lock their doors! How does that feel?
Sanjay Bhol: (Laughs) it’s true, the places I perform, people sometimes react that way. They might tell their kids, "Go to sleep, Sanjaya Bhol is coming,” It's all part of the act, of course it shows the impact of my characters.
- Question: You're known for powerful dialogues. Do you have a favorite?
Sanjay Bhol: There's one from a play where I say, "Aruare Ushuna Mishile Jaha, Mo Saha Nua Kalakaranaka Abhinaya Seia" (What happens mixing raw rice with boiled one, that's what the acting is about with the newcomers) It's become quite popular. It talks of experience and the rawness of new actors.
- Question:Tell us about the play 'Kahibaku Laja Sunile Papa'
Sanjay Bhol: It's a very popular play, the audience gather in huge numbers to watch the play.
- Question: The audience comes in large numbers to see your acting, what do you want to say about that?
Sanjay Bhol: What else I can say, I can only be grateful to them.
- Question: What's the key to your success in portraying villains?
Sanjay Bhol: I believe in fully embodying the character. Understanding their motivations, even if they're evil, is crucial. I try to make them believable, even relatable in a way, so the audience connects with the performance, even if they hate the character.
- Question: You've worked with many new actors. What's that experience like?
Sanjay Bhol: It's like mixing raw rice with parboiled rice – they have energy and enthusiasm, but they're still learning the craft. It's a challenge, but a rewarding one. It's about finding the right balance and guiding them.
- Question: Any advice for aspiring Jatra actors?
Sanjay Bhol: Observe, learn, and be dedicated. Jatra is a demanding art form. It requires passion, hard work, and a deep respect for the tradition. And most importantly, connect with the audience.
Sanjay Bhol's impact goes beyond his chilling portrayals. He's a vital part of a vibrant art form, keeping the tradition of Jatra alive and captivating audiences with his powerful performances. He is an actor who represents a powerful beloved art, and above all as a villain, which makes dreadful at the same time ‘loved’.
