Dono actor Manik Papneja: “The movie is a fresh perspective about an old tale”

Actor Manik Papneja, who was previously seen in Looop Lapeta, Made In Heaven and Baked, made his big screen debut with Rajshri Productions’ Dono starring Rajveer Deol and Paloma. As the film directed by Avnish S. Barjatya has released in cinemas on October 5, Manik talks about his experience of acting in Dono.

What was your reaction when you were cast for Dono – a Rajshri Productions film?

Manik Papneja: I was elated. I got a call right after walking out of the Rajshri office. I didn’t really believe it until I was on set shooting a few weeks later.

Please tell us something about your character and his relationship with the lead pair.

Manik Papneja: Gopal aka Gappu is Dev’s (Rajveer Deol) and Alina’s (Kanikka Kapur) best friend. He is a friend we all have in our lives who annoys and irritates us when we are with them, but we miss tremendously when they aren’t around. Gappu is at his best friend’s wedding, balancing between looking out for his friend Dev and looking out for himself by finding some female company.

Manik Papneja and Rajveer Deol in Dono

According to you, what sets Dono apart from other films in the rom-com/love story genre?

Manik Papneja: I think the film is a celebration of love. It also speaks about a balance between the old and the new, between the traditional and modern and what it takes to create harmony between the two. I think it’s safe to say the movie is a fresh perspective about an old tale.

What was your most memorable scene to shoot in Dono?

Manik Papneja: The cricket scene. I think we were so pumped to be part of a cricket sequence in a Rajshri film. The only thing missing was a fluffy small Pomeranian drinking an aerated drink to quench his thirst.

Dono has a lengthy soundtrack. Which is your favourite song and why?

Manik Papneja: I enjoy two songs a lot. One is Agg Lagdi and the other one is Lehenga Padd Gaya Mehenga. They are just so fun I can’t help but like them.

Did you get a chance to interact with Mr. Sooraj Barjatya? Any anecdotes with him?

Manik Papneja: He is just the kindest and calmest presence on set. I did get to interact with him every now and then. On one such interaction he asked me to always be true to what I am doing and not be polluted by what I think works, rather just be honest and that will work.

Which is your favourite Rajshri Productions film?

Manik Papneja: It’s probably Hum Aapke Hai Koun!