How did Jisshu Sengupta fare in Manikarnika as Gangadhar Rao?

Jisshu Sengupta is almost 100 films old today. But what sets him apart from many of his generation, is his foray into Bollywood and how he plays important though brief roles in some of the best blockbusters of India. Remember his portrayal of Ileana D’Cruz’s silent but determined husband in Barfi? Or even the supportive husband pairing opposite Rani Mukherjee in Mardaani and Deepika Padukone’s friend in Piku.

In the recent mega movie Manikarnika we again find Jisshu in a different frame, all replete with the grandeur and opulence of an emperor’s outfit. Be it the shining armour or the exquisitely knitted pagdi and the typical kingly moustache, Jisshu has caught attention on screen. Most of his films in the last few years have been critically acclaimed and have won several awards. Gangadhar Rao had played a very important role in Rani Laxmibai’s life, even though he died leaving the Queen and prince of Jhansi alone to defend their kingdom against the British.

Manikarnika shows a wonderful relationship between the two and Jisshu plays the role of Gangadhar Rao with elan. As the actor said in a recent interview: “Most of my films have travelled to major film festivals across the globe and have received rave reviews. This gives me a kick as an actor and makes me feel that I need to push myself to do better.”