Both the industry and his fans call him Mithun Da. Da in Bengali is older brother. And stories of Mithun’s generosity, kindness and helpful nature are legion. He has been an older brother to many a struggler and continues to do so even today. A much-loved and respected man, Mithun Chakraborty started life on the lowest rung and slowly climbed the ladder of success to reach where he is today. On the professional front Mithun is the undisputed original disco dancer. His gyrations, pelvic thrusts and grooves had cinema goers in a tizzy. Films like Disco Dancer (1982), Dance Dance (1987) made him a cult figure. Though he is recognized for his dancing skills very few are aware that Mithun won the National Award for his debut film, Mrigaya. And he proved it all over again in his most recent film, Guru.

Now Mithun is back in action on the small screen as a mentor on Dance India Dance the dancing reality show aired on Zee. Mithun is not new to this as he has been judging Dance Bangla Dance since the last three seasons and now he is all set for the fourth consecutive season.

Tellychakkar caught up with the original Disco King as he makes his debut on a Hindi GEC:

What took you so long to come to TV?

Because I am still very busy and my dates are blocked. But something that really interests me I take it up immediately. I am very selective about work so you don’t see me everywhere.

What prompted you to take up this reality show?

I want to make it clear that Dance India Dance is not a reality show. We are not hunting for a dancer we are in search of a star. In my opinion we are in the process of making a star on this show.

You said that one out of the 18 will be declared the winner. Wouldn’t this be demoralizing for the remaining contestants and one can always expect a foul play?

Who is going to do the foul play and how would it escape from my eyes? I am the final judge and my verdict is of utmost importance.

What about the petty squabbles that take place between the mentors and the judges?

I don’t think it would happen here.

Voting often hampers the fairness of the show?

Now if everybody knows this happens why don’t they vote fairly? And most of us do not even bother to vote. We just sit and watch like mute spectators. May be with our voting things would change. This means that we are at fault.

Have you been offered other such shows?

I don’t accept all the shows that I am offered. I am currently doing the fourth season of Dance Bangla Dance which is definitely one of the top rated shows on Zee Bangla. And hence they come up with Dance India Dance. When they came to me with the offer I was convinced and I decided to do the show.

How is Dance Bangla Dance different from Dance India Dance?

They are two completely different shows. The formats are totally different from each other.

How comfortable are you on television?

Trust me it’s a tough job. People who think that it’s an easy job must not have seen the life of people on TV at close quarters. I salute the people who work on television.

Of late you are just doing character roles. Is it a well thought over strategy?

Now one will see me more in character roles only. This is the time when I am drawing the dividends of my stardom. I have seen it all- super stardom and mega stardom and now I am reaping the results of the goodwill.

Is there any film in the recent past that you enjoyed watching?

Taare Zameen Par.

Do the contestants of this show remind you of your struggling phase?

While doing Dance Bangla Dance, I used to be left dumbstruck many a times. There was a contestant whose father was a taxi driver. I think there are many cases to which you relate. During my struggling days I used to dance at parties thinking that I would get food to eat for alteast that night. I didn’t get a stage like this to showcase my potential. I think we must thank Zee for giving these talented participants a stage.

Earlier dance and music were the highlights in a film but now scripts are most important. Do you think the significance of dance and music has declined?

You tell me the reason for this. Infact, scripts too don’t matter today but it is the entire package that matters. You tell me why we are not making movies on music and dance.

Amongst the younger generation who according to you is the best dancer?

It would have to be Hrithik Roshan.

Who reminds you of your style?

Everybody has their own style and I have my own. I don’t think anybody likes to copy.

Any unfulfilled dreams?

Now I must ask God if there is anything left for me. Only he can answer this question.