Marathi film industry is scaling new heights: Jackie

He’s the man who redefined the meaning of hero in the filmi fiefdom at a time when jumping jacks and chocolate boys were the norm.
Today, decades down the line, Jackie has still retained his unique aura along with his tough good looks — having carved a special niche in the people’s hearts. As he comes to Pune for an event, PT catches up with the man and brings you Jaggu Dada unplugged…
‘Pune woos me!’ The ‘hero’ has been making quite a few trips to Pune, and has almost become a regular in the city’s party circuits.Rag him about it, and he says with a boyish grin, “Basically, I am in love with the pleasant weather here, which is like a treat compared to the humid atmosphere in Mumbai. The quiet and peace of Pune woo me all the time. Also, I have a lot of friends here, so I catch up with them on these visits. Ha Mumbai cha raja Dakkhan chya rani la bhetaila yeto.
‘Party circuit rocks’ Jaggu dada admits unabashedly that he simply loves the party scenario in Pune. “The pubs and lounges here are as good as those in Mumbai. But, it’s the house parties of Pune, which simply floor me! That’s something I really look forward to. The warmth, affection and hospitality of Pune has bowled me over and I’m fed in your city like a long-lost son! This factor is missing in aamchi Mumbai,” says he.
Mee Marathi Having starred in Marathi film Rita, Jackie is quite gung-ho about working in his next Marathi flick Hrudaynaath. He enthuses: “Marathi film industry is scaling new heights, and I’m impressed with the professionalism in the people. That is why a lot of B’town stars are getting attracted to it. I’m also looking forward to Anant Mahadevan’s next Hindi film, which depicts the deep bond between a mother and a son.”
No holds barred! These days he’s also endorsing some tele-shopping brands with a vengeance. Ask him why this fetish for marketing and pat comes the reply: “I have no reservations when it comes to earning an honest bread! Main sab kuch kar sakta hai! I can’t speak more than this as I have signed a contract with the company.”
Papa kehte hain… And what does he have to say about his son Jai wanting to tread the B’town path? “He’s 21 and right now, he is working on himself and undergoing some training. I believe, things will fall in place when the right time comes. I have just told him to follow two things always — discipline and respect for others,” says the indulgent father.
Whither friendship! Along with being a doting dad, Jackie is also known to be a loyal buddy, whose friendship with Dimple Kapadia and Danny Denzongpa has stood the test of times. But, what does he feel about the friendships in the industry today? Not one to dither, he says: “The outlook of the actors has changed today. It’s more about being on top. I hear a lot of stories about actors not withstanding each other’s presence or walking away from each other on the sets. Things were different in our times. We used to enjoy working together and helped each other to perform better. Our seniors like Dev Anand showed us this path. I was a rank newcomer when I was working in Heera Panna. Before the shoot began, Dev saab called me and said : ‘Mere saath ek mahina pahadon mein shooting karne chaloge?’ One thing I learnt from him is – let bygones be bygones! I wish the Gen-Next takes a lesson from such legends!”