To me, only the filmmaker and the role matters.

You cannot judge the performance of an actor in isolation. A performance becomes good because of so many factors, including the other actors.

I have been lucky enough to portray many, many characters.

I was in school when 'Sholay' was released. I think recreating a film like that is a good idea.

If I had not made a film like 'Vaanaprastham,' I would not have been able to go to Cannes or any other festival. I would not have had a chance to act as a Kathakali artiste. I would not have had a chance to be with some of the greatest Kathakali artistes. I consider all this my good fortune.

Even when I was young, I never felt extreme feelings.

Be it cinema or TV, I have always been interested in taking up challenging projects.

I acted in my first film while in my second year of degree college, in 1978.

The thing about movies is that till it goes on floors, it's just preparations for the film.

If you ask me whether I can direct, I can. In fact, I have shot several songs, scenes and stunts. When certain directors of my movies were not able to be there for some reason and had asked me to help out, I have directed. But to helm an entire movie is a different art altogether.

Good films will happen only if there are people to produce good films and there are people to encourage the endeavour.

My first film was 'Thiranottam.' I cannot discount that film because I got initiated into films with it.

I have never, ever argued about money with any of my producers because that is the kind of relationship and understanding I have with them.

I want to do roles that no one else has ever done, which I know is difficult.

People know I am not blind or have super strength, yet they believed in my characters in 'Oppam' and 'Pulimurugan.' It's that belief of the audience that is also my greatest strength. Once that is gone, I might have to shut up shop and look for another job.

Being an actor doesn't mean that I can't react to what's happening around me.

Destiny plays a very important role in my life.

I have a fairly good collection of paintings, both classical and contemporary.

There was a time when not many people had access to Malayalam films. So those who did have access went on to copy the films, add a few bits, and present it like it was their own.

Every actor, director, and producer want all their films to do well. So you choose the role carefully, listen to the script, and work hard. But there is no way of predicting whether it will be a hit or a flop.

Digitization has altered the nature of the film industry. Social media, especially, has become a decisive factor in determining a film's box office success.

Happiness is not merely a word. It is a state of mind.

Acting is only my profession.

Just like films, food is also a passion for me.