Detangle with Mr Boman Irani

Boman Irani's warmth and wisdom shine throughout this captivating conversation that explores the intersection of acting craft, psychological insight, and authentic storytelling. The renowned actor—beloved for iconic roles in films like Munna Bhai MBBS and 3 Idiots—shares the unconventional journey that led him to Bollywood in his 40s after fourteen years in theater. "Actors are lying," Boman reveals with disarming candor, before explaining his paradoxical approach to performance: finding deep truth within pretense. This philosophy permeates his craft as he describes the ability to be "truthful in the lie" while maintaining the psychological discipline to "unlie" himself after intense scenes. Rather than focusing on expressions, Boman emphasizes feeling—allowing audiences to experience what the character experiences rather than merely observing a performance. His reflections on what makes characters unforgettable offer profound insights for storytellers and psychology enthusiasts alike. "Characters who are dark but show potential for change" create the strongest connections with audiences, he explains, because they offer hope: "If this guy could change, maybe I can change too." This perspective illuminates why his portrayals of complex characters like Dr. Asthana resonate so powerfully across generations. The conversation takes a heartwarming turn when Boman shares the contents of his "emotional first aid box"—family unity for oxygen, humor for medicine, and forward planning for healing. This proactive approach to happiness extends to his professional relationships, where he actively creates inclusive environments on set. When asked about character development, he offers a principle that bridges storytelling and life philosophy: "The protagonist is the architect of his own misery or happiness." Join us for this enriching dialogue that reveals why Boman Irani remains one of Indian cinema's most thoughtful and beloved artists. Follow on Instagram @detangle_by_kinjal