Manoj Bajpayee Opens Up About His Aloof Nature and Limited Social Circle

Manoj Bajpayee, a stalwart of Indian cinema with a career spanning over three decades, has always remained a private and reserved personality. Despite featuring in 3-4 projects annually, the critically acclaimed actor is rarely seen in the social circuit or at industry parties. In a recent interview with Screen, the Satya actor shared insights into his nature, his aversion to social gatherings, and how it is often misinterpreted by people.

Bajpayee candidly revealed that he doesn't get invited to parties anymore because people have come to understand his stance. “I have not had any major controversies, but yes, I don’t go for any parties. Now people don’t even invite me, because they have realized why to be offended and humiliated by me not attending, which I am very happy with. Please don’t call me because I like to sleep by 10-10:30 pm and I am always looking forward to my early mornings," he stated.

The actor also mentioned that he values his close-knit circle and does make time for a few director friends, including Sharib Hashmi. Speaking about his limited connections in the acting fraternity, Bajpayee said, “I do go out to meet a few people, director friends of mine. There is Sharib Hashmi, but I don’t have many actor friends. I know Kay Kay Menon, and I have high regard for him. Even Nawazuddin Siddiqui, but we don’t meet very often because we are all so very busy people.”

Addressing the perception that his aloofness might come across as arrogance, Bajpayee clarified, “People who don’t know me will have a perception. Some people think that I am very arrogant because I am reserved or aloof. I safeguard my privacy fiercely. If somebody thinks I am arrogant, so be it. The day they come to sit with me and know me, all of these things will be taken care of. I am a grateful man. I am not arrogant, but I do have a lot of self-respect.”