Actor Barun Sobti, who will be seen in "22 Yards", says while popularity gives every actor a chance to share their opinion on socio-political issues with a wide audience, their words mostly get misconstrued, which, in turn, makes them refrain from expressing themselves.
On having an opinion on socio-political matters, Barun told IANS: "I think one of the reasons why people like us tend to stay away from expressing our political opinion is that there is a room for misinterpretation.
"Many times, our opinions are presented out of context and that creates more problems. Therefore, celebrities refrain to comment on things."
"That is why political dialogue works, not a political opinion," added the actor.
In "22 Yards", Barun plays a cricket talent agent. He said the story gave him an insight into a side he didn't know about even as a regular cricket watcher.
"When I heard the story, I was blown away and stood up from the chair I was sitting. I really wanted to latch on to this part. As a cricket watcher, we are interested to know what's the score and who won the match. But here (in the film) I am playing a cricket agent and I had no idea of the existence of this post.
"In fact, in the commercial part of the game, a cricket agent has a pivotal role to play, so that they, in a way, control the players," added the "Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon?" actor.
Speaking of the impact of strained relationships between India and Pakistan on cricket and films, he said: "I think these are not making any impact on the real cause, the real issue that the government is fighting. Cricket and film are soft targets."
"I think we need a political solution to resolve the issue and our elected government is the expert of doing that," he added.
Directed by the debutant Mitali Ghoshal, "22 Yards" was shot in Kolkata.
Barun said that though shooting in the real location is usually tough, the cast and crew had a great time.
"Kolkata is a beautiful city. It holds an old world charm and it is quite classy. I loved the city. People are so nice there. We shot in Eden Garden, Bengal Chamber of Commerce and in different luxury hotels. I must say that the people are very welcoming," he said.
The film, releasing on March 15, also features Panchi Bora, Rajit Kapur, Amartya Ray, Rajesh Sharma, Geetika Tyagi.
--IANS
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