Two-time Olympic medalist Manu Bhakar said he wouldn’t mind playing a shooter role in a film, but is unlikely to make his Bollywood debut anytime soon. In a candid conversation at Conclave Mumbai 2024, Manu expressed surprise to learn that South Korean shooter Kim Ye-ji has landed her first acting role after the Paris Olympics. However, she stressed that she remains focused on excelling in shooting and winning more medals at the highest level for India.
After her historic success in Paris, Manu Bhakar has become a household name and one of the country’s best-selling sportspeople. On her return from the Olympics, she was given a hero’s welcome and has been keeping herself busy attending various celebrations.
When asked if he was interested in acting, Manu replied, “I’m good at shooting and sports,” but his coach Jaspal Rana urged him to “tell the truth.”
“A little acting never hurt anyone,” Manu admitted, “But my main focus will always be sports. Maybe I can get a shooting-related role.”
Manu Baker talks about Kim Ye-ji’s acting
Manu, who won two bronze medals at the Paris Olympics, was happy about Kim Ye-ji’s acting debut and wished her success. Kim, who won the silver medal in the women’s 10m air pistol event at the Paris Olympics ahead of Manu, was talked about for her calm demeanor during the competition.
As Kim’s popularity soared, she signed with a talent management company in August to handle her off-range work. Within a month, the decision paid off, as AFP reported she landed her first acting role in “Crush,” a spin-off series of the film “Asia.” In the series, Kim and Indian actor Anushka Sen will both play assassins.
“Seriously? That’s so interesting! Wow, Hollywood? No, not at all. Playing an assassin would be really cool,” Manu said, before Jaspal again reminded him of his ambitions.
There’s nothing wrong with Manu showing off his Olympic medal: Coach Jaspal
“Kim won gold, right? Oh, silver. Let’s go for the silver,” Lana added jokingly.
Manu Bhakar praises Ananya Panday
Meanwhile, Manu revealed that he is not yet interested in a biopic on his life, stressing that there are still many chapters in his career to be written.
“I think by the time a film about me is considered, there will be many more actors to choose from. There are so many talented actors now. I have a long career, so I need a few more years to make a film about me,” she explained.
On being informed that Bollywood actor Ananya Panday was interested in playing her in the film, Manu praised Ananya’s recent performances.
“Wow, it’s amazing. I am sure she will become a great actor. She has already done a fantastic job. Kho Gaye Hum Kahan is a really good film. I am very impressed with her performance,” Manu said after watching an interview with India Today in which Ananya talks about her role in the biopic.
Publisher:
Akshay Ramesh
Release date:
September 26, 2024