Known for always speaking his mind, the acclaimed actor revealed that he has attended only three award functions in his entire career because he finds such events “fake.”
Recalling one particular incident, Paresh Rawal shared that he was expected to be nominated in the Best Supporting Actor category for one of his performances. However, when he was instead selected for the Best Villain award, he refused to accept it.
According to the actor, he had clearly conveyed to the organizers that if they chose not to nominate him, it was absolutely fine. But if they intended to give him an award for a category that did not truly represent his character, he would not accept it. He explained that accepting such an award would require him to go on stage and put on what he called “fake acting” by pretending to be delighted, something he did not want to do.
Despite his refusal, the award was still presented, with Jackie Shroff accepting it on his behalf. Paresh Rawal maintained that he did not want to receive an award that, in his opinion, was not truthful to the role he had played.
Sharing what recognition genuinely means to him, the veteran actor said he has never been fond of awards. Instead, he values appreciation from people who truly understand cinema and acting. According to Paresh Rawal, when a director or a fellow actor calls to say that his performance was good, that appreciation means far more than any trophy.
For the celebrated actor, validation from someone who knows the craft is the highest honor an artist can receive. He concluded that such genuine appreciation is the real award for him, and nothing can surpass it.