According to actor Abhishek Banerjee, his appearance in Freedom at Midnight 2 is a sincere tribute to the late film icon Om Puri. Despite its brief duration, the appearance has profound emotional and cinematic significance.## A Silent Remembrance of a Film Icon
The spirit of a character previously played by Om Puri in Richard Attenborough’s Gandhi (1982) served as the inspiration for Abhishek’s role. The allusion is subtle but impactful. It shows reverence for a heritage that influenced actors for many generations.
Freedom at Midnight, which was directed by Nikkhil Advani, is presently available for streaming on Sony LIV. The audience was immediately drawn to Abhishek’s cameo because of its emotional nuance and restraint.## “The Role’s Size Was Never Important”
Abhishek Banerjee expressed his opinions, saying that the cameo meant much more than just screen time. He described it as a genuine tribute to Om Puri’s enormous impact on Indian cinema. I have greatly admired Om Puri Sahab for his skill, bravery, and dignity. It felt like a silent homage to his legacy to enter an area that resembles a role he once played, he said.
The actor described the experience as humble and intensely personal, acknowledging the enormous difference between admiration and mastery.## Honouring the Industry’s Spirit
Abhishek emphasised the collaborative nature of filmmaking. He asserts that not all roles are about fame or self-interest. Occasionally, making a cameo is a way to contribute to a bigger narrative. It helps you stay sharp. You enter, concentrate, deliver, and depart, but the knowledge remains.
He likened these roles to actors’ “net practice”—brief but enriching.## Honouring Om Puri with Restraint and Sincerity
Abhishek also discussed the obligation of playing a character associated with Om Puri. “Om Puri sahab will never be replaced. I took a sincere and restrained approach to the role—qualities he effortlessly embodied.
Even though it was a brief appearance, the role’s emotional impact required candour and tact.## An Intergenerational Moment
Freedom at Midnight 2 keeps delving into pivotal events and personalities from India’s past. The series is notable for its depth due to its thoughtful storytelling and excellent performances.
A subtle highlight that celebrates the lasting legacy of Indian cinema and unites generations of actors is Abhishek Banerjee’s cameo.
