Vivek Oberoi: I don't dwell in the past, I believe negativity helps no one

The first thing that strikes you about Vivek Oberoi is his cheerful disposition and positive outlook towards life. The actor, who stormed B-Town with acclaimed performances in movies like 'Company' and 'Saathiya', remains unfazed by the highs and lows that he has seen in his 14-year career. Despite a frenetic schedule while promoting his upcoming adult comedy, 'Great Grand Masti' (GGM), he ensures that he spends time with his son Vivaan Veer.To make up for lost time, he brings along his adorable three-year-old for this interview too. When Vivaan points out to the poster and asks why his 'Daida' looks scared, the actor quickly tells him that uncles Riteish (Deshmukh) and Aftab (Shivdasani) are also scared of the pretty girl in the poster, Urvashi Rautela (Yamaha Fascino Miss Diva ' Miss Universe India 2015). Over steaming cups of coffee and sandwiches, the actor talks to us about the past, present and future. Excerpts from the conversation.
What's the first thought that comes to mind when you hear the word 'masti'?
I think of my buddies (Riteish and Aftab) and our director Indra Kumar. Since our first association 13 years ago, we've become a family now. Even when we are not shooting together, we hang out with our respective families.
While the first film was a comedy about three friends seeking thrill outside their boring marriages, the sequels are 'Adults Only' comedies.
The franchise follows the trend of how men become naughtier as they turn older. When we were celebrating the success of 'Grand Masti', I told Induji that the first installment was better as its story was more engaging and entertaining. He has made the effort and brought the spirit of 'Masti' to 'GGM'. It's funnier and has more emotions.

In this film, all of you are chased by a virgin ghost. What has been your spookiest experience in reality?
During the making of 'Masti', when we were shooting in Mukesh Mills (Mumbai), I heard weird sounds in the background and that really spooked me out. It was also quite eerie while shooting for 'GGM' in Gujarat. The palace where we were filming had stuffed animal heads mounted on walls. During the day it looked beautiful, but at night it felt like they were watching me and one of them would grab me from behind.
With the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) coming down heavily on adult comedies, do you think the future of this genre looks bleak?
We had a tough time with this film. The Censor Board's justification was that they were following the guidelines of the Cinematograph Act. If the Act is old, it has to change, but until that happens, we have to continue following it. They aren't wrong when they say that. However, I was really glad when I spoke to the Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting Rajyavardhan Rathore. He was forthcoming and gave me clarity. I feel this government is taking an initiative towards certification, rather than censorship. I like the respect he gave the film fraternity and the audience by saying, 'We don't want to tell people what to watch and what not to watch'. Moreover, our industry is a soft target, anyone can jeopardise a film by filing a court case just one day before it releases. Many of my industry colleagues have asked me to join in this movement. I'm more than happy to serve my fraternity and industry in every way I can.
Does your son enjoy watching your movies?
He's still too young, but he gets affected when he sees me crying or getting beaten up in a scene. He thinks his Daida is a superhero. If my mom tells me something, he tells her 'Daadi, don't tell Daida that.' He believes I can't do anything wrong.
Does your wife, Priyanka, watch all your movies?
She's not a fan of films like 'GGM'. I respect her opinion but my decisions are my own. She likes 'Saathiya', 'Omkara' and 'Rakht Charitra'. She's been very supportive. I've placed a bet with her that she will like 'GGM'. This film is funnier than provocative, hence it will attract a larger female audience.
While it's natural for an actor to venture into film production, what prompted you to foray into other businesses?
About five-six years ago, I was going through a difficult time in the industry. There were two things I could do ' sit at home and get frustrated or do something else. I'm educated and intelligent. After my first real estate project, I forayed into the tech space. I started working with other companies and bringing in international experts for clean energy in India. Now, I'm looking forward to my maiden production venture in Bollywood. I'm also excited about another project with Farhan Akhtar and Riteish Sidhwani's company.

Looking back, do you think the infamous press conference you held about Salman Khan has haunted you for too long?
I don't dwell in the past, and I believe negativity helps no one. I'm someone who has always had a positive outlook towards life. I move on, rather than mull over the past. What I've learnt in my 14-year journey in Bollywood is that no matter how successful you are, nothing is better than humility. The way Amitabh Bachchan saab and Jeetendraji meet you with warmth and humility is exceptional. I want to imbibe that from actors like them. When I praise someone's work, I do not have any vested interest. Likewise, when I celebrate someone's success I feel genuinely happy because it means that the film fraternity is doing well. I was very happy when Tiger Shroff's 'Baaghi' became a hit. I have known him long before he became an actor, so I am proud of him. I love the energy of the new breed and I am happy that they are doing so well.
Does it upset you that your attempts at truce aren't even acknowledged?
No! Unfortunately, some people are stuck in a time warp about an incident that happened 13 years ago. I'm celebrating my life every day. I have a beautiful family and I wake up to bliss every day. I'm blessed with more than I could dream of. The respect I get is something I had never imagined I would get 10 years ago. I feel so much gratitude.
Given your involvement in projects associated with the present government, is politics on the agenda?
Not really. There was a crossroad in my life where I was offered to contest for parliamentary elections in 2014. But I realised that there is a time in life for everything. Right now, I want to focus on my business projects, work in movies and enjoy time with my family. At the same time, I also want to focus on the social work I've been doing. As for politics, I share good relations with people across parties, not any particular one.
Listen to 'Grand Masti' songs on Gaana.com