In his cinematic journey spanning nearly 52 years, Sachin Pilgaonkar has been a part of various critically acclaimed projects but the actor considers his latest Marathi film "Katyar Kaljat Ghusali", a career defining movie.
Directed by debutant Subodh Bhave, the film stars Sachin as singer Khansaheb Aftab Hussain Bareliwale.
"I started working when I was a five-year-old. In my career of nearly 52 years, more than being simply proud, I feel privileged to get a film like this.
"It is kind of my next innings and my career will be now known as before 'Katyar Kaljat Ghusali' and after 'Katyar Kaljat Ghusali'," Sachin said.
The film, based on a play of the same name, opened to rave reviews last week and the 58-year-old actor credits the younger generation for its success.
"It is one of a kind movie based on Indian classical music. Today many people are drifting away from it but our youngsters have brought it back again... They have made the film a huge success."
"Katyar Kaljat Ghusali" also marks the acting debut of music composer Shankar Mahadevan, who Sachin said, has done "a brilliant job.""He was apprehensive initially... He took a day or two to settle down and by the third day he was all set. Shankar is playing an innocent composer which he is in real life too. He has done a brilliant job."
The Diwali-release saw a clash with another Marathi film "Mumbai Pune Mumbai 2" and Salman Khan's "Prem Ratan Dhan Payo" produced by Rajshri.
Sachin, however, said he is happy as he is connected with the other two releases as well.
"I started my career as a hero from Rajshri productions... They are extremely close to my heart.”
'Prem Ratan' has not affected our film. It is a big movie, with Salman Khan and it is doing great, so is our film.
"In fact, 'Mumbai Pune Mumbai 2' is doing equally good. It stars Swapnil Joshi who I consider as my son. I am happy for his success too. So this Diwali, all the three films are in a way mine."