Harish Patel, the actor from the 1990s, became famous for his role as ‘Ibu Hatela’ in Mithun Chakraborty-starrer ‘Gunda’. However, Harish was sidelined by Bollywood for his free-spirited and vocal personality; this is precisely why we haven’t seen him in any Hindi films in recent times. Harish, who was once very poorly treated by the Bollywood, is all set to be seen in Marvel’s Eternals, on November 5, 2021.
Harish Patel – From “Gunda” to “Eternals”
Debuted with Shyam Benegal’s critically-acclaimed movie ‘Mandi’, Harish has also performed in many masterpieces such as ‘Mirch Masala’, ‘Mr India, Malgudi Days’, ‘Thanedar’ and ‘Mohra’. Popularly known for his role in Mithun Chakraborty-starrer ‘Gunda’ where he played the character of ‘Ibu Hatela’, Harish has also been a part of various international projects such as ‘The Buddha of Suburbia’, ‘Indie comedy Today’s Special’ and ‘Run Fat Boy Run’.
Talking about Harish Patel’s upcoming projects, he will be next be seen in ‘Eternals’, an American superhero film based on the Marvel Comics series.
Harish said that he auditioned for a part in Eternals in London in 2019 and was immediately called for a read through with the entire cast. He further added that the movie is just another international project for him.
While interacting with Pinkvilla, Harish Patel said, “I was very surprised when people recognised me after a two-second appearance in the trailer because, since 2004, I haven’t been able to work in India. Not because I haven’t been getting roles, but because I would have to go abroad every couple of months for work.”
Harish speaking his mind
Harish, while answering why he hasn’t been seen in any Bollywood films for a long time, said, “I started my career with such legends; Shyam Benegal, Govind Nihalani, Girish Karnad… And if we talk about my start in films, or commercial films, as they say, ShashiKapoor walked up to me at Prithvi theatre with folded hands, and asked, ‘sir, will you work in my film?’.”
He further added, “When you’ve worked with such people, hung out with such people, learned from them, then how can you take ‘aajkalkechatte-batte, badtameez log (ill-mannered people of today)’ seriously. Not everyone is like this, but imagine, if the director and producer don’t have time to talk to me, then how can I work with them. I don’t care for these people. And I believe in destiny; what’s meant to happen will happen.”
With Harish Patel’s such remarks, it can be assumed that he was sidelined by Bollywood for speaking his mind. Despite the setback, he kept working on improving his skills that helped his career grow by leaps and bounds.
Amusingly, his hard work paid off when Hollywood approached him for the many projects.
Read more: As Bollywood remained in the awe of star kids, OTT brought forth real actors
Thus, it can be said that Bollywood lacks the idea of recognising true talent, and it has become infamous for the same. While ordinary yet brilliant actors struggled to make a living, influential, powerful and well-connected star kids were given whatever roles they desired on a silver platter, despite their mediocre acting.