Veteran actor Om Puri, whose insensitive comments about Uri attack martyrs got him showered with criticism, has now said that he may quit acting altogether. During a conversation to a leading daily, Om Puri said that he may quit acting, in what may seem a damage control step. He also added that he wants to do all he can for the children of the martyrs.
At a television debate a few days ago, Om Puri was speaking against the ban on Pakistani actors. In his quest to put his point forward, he went ahead to say that no one asked the jawans to join the army. This statement garnered a lot of flak and he later apologised for his insensitivity. He also said that he deserves a strict punishment from the army.
Speaking on the anger projected at him, Om Puri said that let people boycott his movies. He added that those asking for a boycott of his movies should know that on the silver screen he only plays a character. Telling what kind of punishment he deserves, Om Puri said that people should spit on and tear his posters.
“But when you try to harm films you harm a lot of other people who haven’t offended you in any way,” the daily quoted him.
Also Read: After Uri attacks, nation is angry, time to show solidarity to jawans: Big B
Swearing that he will never participate in a television debate, Om Puri said that if one wants to discuss national issues with him a one-on-one talk would be best. He said that he made those insensitive remarks out of irritation.
“In the middle of my answer, they asked me about soldiers and in irritation, I said what I did. It was wrong. Terribly wrong of me to disrespect our soldiers. I pronounce myself guilty. Just saying I am sorry, is not enough,” Om Puri added.
The actor then went on to say that he would do his bit to ease the pain of the families of the departed soldiers. Om Puri said that once the emotions of bereavement and shock settle, he will not only visit their homes but do something for the children.
Saying that he wants to be a part of their families, Om added,
“I’ll also give whatever I can afford for their children. I want to assume the role of the soldiers’ children’s uncle.”
After being subject to a national furore, Om revealed that he may quit acting altogether. He revealed that he is planning to take an offer from Canada for three months which is scheduled from January 2017.
