'Whatever I am today, it's thanks to Mumbai'

Not many actors in Bollywood switch from mainstream to regional cinema. Jimmy Sheirgill has.

He's a name to reckon with in Punjabi cinema and is playing a cop in his latest release. However, the actor-producer insists that he's not repeating the A Wednesday act. Known for portraying intense roles, Jimmy admits that he has no regrets career-wise. He states, `What has to happen, happens so what's the point in cribbing?` In a freewheeling chat with CS, the 42-year-old actor shares his thoughts on cinema and life.

Producers' lot
Producing a film is a totally different ball game. As an actor, you leave your house, go to work, come back and relax. But as a producer, you're constantly working as anyone can call up anytime and ask for assistance.

Your phone is always on. No wonder it's a more difficult task than acting. As an actor, you come across producers who promise too much and deliver too little, but that's how showbiz functions. After turning producer myself, I do my level best to stick to my ethics.

Chak de phatte
I'm making films in Punjab because I feel there is a lot of space and potential there. The commerce has changed drastically over the past few years but I still feel that we're seeing the tip of an iceberg. So far, I've done only masala, full-entertainer films, but we're looking at scripts from new directors. It's a positive sign to have talents coming up with new ideas.


Health scare
After Dharti (his last Punjabi film) released in 2011, I had a major back problem. It almost brought me to the level of getting operated upon, but my family helped me recover. However, I was out of action for about a year nursing a spinal issue. I started shooting for all the upcoming films in the middle of 2012 and you'll see several of my Bollywood as well as Punjabi films releasing soon.

Mumbai meri jaan
Whatever I am today, it's thanks to this city. When I entered the industry, I was labelled as a choosy actor when I wasn't. But today, I call myself choosy because I'm only working with those I love to work with. I feel honoured to have shared the big screen with the likes of Amitabh Bachchan, Naseeruddin Shah and Irrfan.