Manoj Bajpayee: 'Aligarh' will change people's perception of me as an actor

National Award-winning director Hansal Mehta's 'Aligarh' showcases the heart-rending ordeal of Professor Siras (Manoj Bajpayee), who was allegedly suspended by the

Aligarh

University due to his sexual orientation. A rookie journalist, Dipu, (Rajkummar Rao) becomes his only ray of hope.

Defining the role as a culmination of his entire life's work and struggle, Manoj feels the social drama, scripted by Apurva Asrani, will compel viewers to think. He says, 'We are responsible for Siras' misery. The film exposes the Indian society's hypocrisy. It propagates tolerance and the importance of coexistence.'

'Aligarh' is my most nuanced film: Hansal Mehta

The actor believes he has pushed the envelope in terms of his acting. He adds, 'Hansal has explored another dimension of my personality. 'Aligarh' will change people's perception of me as an actor.'

Talking about his character, Rajkummar elaborates, 'Dipu is Siras' voice as the latter doesn't open up about his feelings with everyone. I have always admired Manoj. Working with him was a pleasure.' Upbeat about working with the two National Award-winning actors, Hansal sums up, 'Aligarh has two of India's finest artistes working in tandem.'

'Aligarh,' produced by Eros International and Karma Pictures, releases today.

Click here for more Bollywood videos

WATCH: Manoj Bajpayee miffed with Censors' A certificate to 'Aligarh' trailer