‘Gujarati cinema is not appreciated here'

Being the son of famous Gujarati actor Naresh Kanodia and nephew of musician Mahesh Kanodia, acting is in his genes. Hitendra Kanodia aka Hitu Kanodia is all set to carve a niche for himself in Gujarati cinema, and in doing so he���s following his famous father���s footsteps. ���My acting career started when I was just a year old. I used to accompany my dad to the sets.I always wanted to be like my dad,��� says Hitu. Hitu���s first movie as a child artiste was Vanjaari Vaav.
Although he always wanted to become an actor, he regrets the fact that he left his studies midway for movies. Hitu says, ���When I was in my second year of my college, I was offered a movie with Aayesha Jhulka which was a big break for me. So I didn���t complete my degree for the sake of that movie. Now I realise that studies are equally important in today���s world.��� How does he feel about constant comparisons with his dad? ���It feels good that people at least notice me and it could be because they think ��� ���oh he���s Naresh���s son!��� But it also puts a sort of pressure on me to do well and to prove myself as an actor of some consequence,��� replies Hitu with candour. Hitu���s acting prowess will be tested in movies like Vahuraani, Garib Ni Dikri, Veer Bhathiji Maharaj, Haal Ne Rupli and Paranva.
Doesn���t Hitu like many young actors aim for Bollywood? ���Gujarat is my Janma bhoomi and karma bhoomi. I respect Gujarati language and culture so I wanted to do something for Gujarati cinema,��� says Hitu. Is it because he has not been offered Hindi movies as yet? ���I don���t want to beg for Hindi movies. If the offer comes I am open to it,��� clarifies Hitu.
Hitu is quite disappointed with the cold response to Gujarati cinema in Gujarat. ���You go to any state; they will promote their regional movies. However in Gujarat, regional movies are not viewed and appreciated as much as they should be. You should respect your own language instead of being ashamed of it,��� says Hitu. Is the lukewarm response to Gujarati cinema because of the lack of contemporary story lines and approach? ���We are changing. We have started making movies that portray modern culture. I can and I will bring a change in Gujarati cinema and that is a mission,��� replies Hitu.
Will he join politics like his father? ���I participate in political campaigns as my dad is associated with a political party. I have great admiration for Narendra Modi as he is a dynamic leader. Sometimes I also attend party meetings but right now I don���t have any plans to join politics. I am happy being an actor,��� says Hitu.