The actor has given some brilliant performances in films like Maqbool, The Namesake and, Life... In A Metro, has acted with some of the biggest stars abroad -- with Angelina Jolie in A Mighty Heart and Natalie Portman in New York I Love You -- and has just come out of what may be the biggest Hollywood blockbuster this year The Amazing Spider-Man.

His next release, Pan Singh Tomar, sees him play a national level athlete who goes on to become one of the most dreaded dacoits in the country. Directed by noted filmmaker Tigmanshu Dhulia, the film is already getting rave reviews. Irrfan chats with Sonil Dedhia and tells him why he doesn't believe in promoting himself, working in Hollywood films and more.

The promos of Paan Singh Tomar have got a favourable response, particularly the dialogues. I am happy that the promos of the film is getting a good response. Luckily, my dialogues this time haven't come under the scanner (smiles). Last year, the Censor Board objected to the use of the word 'saali' in my film Yeh Saali Zindaagi and it became such a big controversy for such a small reason.

I am glad that this time the Censor Board has not taken any objection. It shows that it is also growing with time, which is an encouraging sign for our industry. The film is doing the rounds of prestigious film festivals across the globe. People across the world, who have seen the film, like it. It's often thought that films based on reality are depressing but Paan Singh Tomar is very entertaining and engaging. It has a lot of action and emotional sequences.

Besides Bandit Queen, I can't think of any film that can tell you how dacoits really are. The young generation is supportive and they want to see real and engaging cinema. I think people will like this film a lot.

Image: Irrfan in Paan Singh Tomar