‘Jackie Chan acknowledging my action was the best feeling’: Vidyut Jammwal

Vidyut Jammwal’s Junglee won two awards at the Jackie Chan International Film Week in China. The flick was based on wildlife conservation and bagged the trophies for Best Action sequence choreographer and Special Jury Prize for Best Action family film. The Chuck Russell directorial was shortlisted from 150 other films. The action star talks to After Hrs about this recognition and what it means to him. Excerpts:

What is your reaction to winning two awards for Junglee at the international stage?

When you represent India, and on top of that win two awards, it is the best thing that can happen. Jackie Chan International Film Week is one of the biggest festivals in the world; it is the Oscars for action. People from all over the globe come here, and we had some of the most renowned names on the jury. I have dedicated this award to Indian martial art Kalaripayattu and felt extremely proud.

How was your meeting with Jackie?

When I met Jackie, he hugged me. It was an amazing moment. We all have been inspired by him and to receive the award in front of the legend and him acknowledging my action was the best feeling. When you are not from the industry and people appreciate you, it cannot get any better than this.

How do you carry out your stunts so effortlessly on the big screen?

I don’t do regular gym stuff. Instead, I work on my craft. There will invariably be a lot of wear and tear in your body when you do action films. But, when you are recognised for your work, all the pain goes away. This award is medicine for me.

Vidyut Jammwal

Do you sometimes get the feeling that you have been pigeonholed as an action star?

The thing is, I am very proud of the fact that Junglee has won international awards and there is more to come. For me, to get into the industry was very important to have a unique craft and now that I have conquered it, I will be doing many more things.

Will Commando always hold a special place in your heart?

Every time I step out of my home, people call me Commando Vidyut Jammwal and I feel very proud of it.

Apart from Commando 3, what other projects are you working on?

Commando 3 is almost done and only one song is left to shoot. I also have a film called Khuda Hafiz, which I am working on. I want to do good cinema and I’m happy with the way things are.