Paresh wants to become Malamaal
By Sandipan Dalal, Mid-Day 6 April 2006

Rawal has upped his feel charged Ghai a cool 40 lakh for Good Boy Bad Boy.

Paresh Rawal has upped his price after the success of his recent films. Especially Malamaal Weekly, a film that he carried on his shoulders. According to the grapevine, for Good Boy Bad Boy, directed by Ashwini Chaudhary and produced by Subhash Ghai, Paresh quoted a cool 40 lakh for just fifteen days of work.

In the film, Paresh will be playing a quirky and eccentric college dean. The plot revolves around the lives of a bunch of college students – Emraan Hashmi, Tusshar Kapoor, Tanushree Datta and Isha Sharwani. Rawal’s trademark demeanor and humor are one of the essential comic ingredients in the film. Says Ghai, “Paresh has done a fantastic job that will have the audience rolling on the floor. He has successfully portrayed the subtle characteristics of an academician.”

When quizzed about Paresh’s fat pay packet, producer Ghai says, “Paresh Rawal has definitely hiked his price. At least, that’s what I hear. I haven’t had a personal conversation with him over this.” He further adds, “We sign an actor of a particular film. His remuneration doesn’t depend upon number of days he will be required to shoot. It can be as minimal as 15 days; and then again, it can be for 3 months. So what matters, is the role he plays in the film.”

Paresh has increased his asking price, but no one is cribbing because the talented actor is known to deliver the goods. Besides he has his own loyal fan following, so it is justified. Mukta Arts head honcho stresses, “Paresh is a fine actor and he’s been associated with Mukta Arts over the years. We treat him like a family member here, and in return he gives us all his time, energy and creativity.” However, the actor refused to comment. The good news is that now supporting cast can demand their price and get it.