Jab We Met is a cult classic of the modern times. While the iconic character Geet played by Kareena Kapoor is widely discussed on social media, Aditiya Dharamraj Kashyap (Shahid Kapoor) and Anshuman (Tarun Arora) are talked about in the same breath as two of the men Geet fell in love with. But they were not the only two men in her life, Manjeet Singh Maan-her childhood friend was one of the suitors her family had selected her for. In the film, the dramatic character of Geet happily opted for engagement with Manjeet Singh, but in the back of her mind, she had other plans. Her family felt that she had eloped with Aditya, but she ran away to marry Anshuman with the help of Aditya and ditched Manjit.
Manjit Singh’s character was brilliantly played by Birpartap Singh is overlooked in the messed up love life of Geet. However, the handsome turbaned actor disappeared after acting in some of the biggest projects of its time. Thus, we reached out to the actor who is out of sight but not out of our mind to what has he been upto all these years.
How did films happen?
Growing up in Patiala, I have been doing theatre since childhood. Jab We Met came my way through a production house in Punjab. I was supposed to play a much smaller character in Jab We Met but on the set it was decided I will be playing the character of Manjit Singh.
What was your experience of working on Jab We Met?
It was a new set up for me. Imitiaz Ali sir was honest towards his work and was a delight to work with while working with big stars like Kareena and Shahid was also a wonderful experience. Dara (Singh) ji complimented me, “Jeonda Reh Puttar, Sohna lag reha Shera”. I had a memorable time of my life on the sets of “Jab We Met”.
You’ve worked in some of the Punjabi films also.
Hashar with Babbu Maan was another big film. A youthful subject had me and other youngsters as the backbone of Babbu Maan in the film. I was also a part of Diljit Dosanjh’s ‘The Lion Of Punjab’ under the direction of Guddu Dhanoa, working under his direction was also a great privilege.
What kept you away from big screens after starring in these big films?
I was constantly working during that period. Besides these films I was doing Sony TV’s Hindi serial Meet Mila De Rabba, which kept me busy for a long time. I was also doing ads. I was a brand ambassador of Malwa Reign of Tribune India.
Then you took a break?
You can say that as I shifted to the US in 2011. I set up my business there. I got busy with my work and family life there. The switch to the new world kept me away from acting profession, even though I had some offers but I had to decline it due to diverted concentrations.
Now with many Punjabi and Hindi film productions being based abroad, If he is open to acting again?
Yes, I am working on it. I am in touch with a few film producers and hopefully get back in the acting field, Manjit Singh oops Birpratap Singh shared while signing out.
