Two-time winner of the National award, the versatile Manoj Bajpai is more famous as the flamboyant Bhiku Mhatre, the gangster of 'Satya'. But variety in roles has saved him from being typecast as the acclaimed Bhiku.

25 films, 2 National and several popular awards later the actor is all set for the release of '1971' and Ganesh Acharya's directorial debut, 'Swami' in which he plays the title role. His co-star, Juhi Chawla feels that no other actor would have done justice to Swami's role. In the film Manoj plays the role of a Maharashtrian Brahmin and Swami is his journey spanning 20 years.

The choreographer turned director feels that Manoj is tailor-made for the role. Now, with 5 of his films lined up for a release this year, his lucky star for sure is shining brightly. - (SAMPURN)