Mithun Chakraborty shakes a leg with Shukno Lanka co-star Emma Brown. Picture by Aranya Sen

Clad in white kurta-pyjama with a green jhola slung from his shoulder, Mithun Chakraborty was cracking jokes, singing and doing the disco with his Australian co-star Emma Brown.

Mithun was in a wacky mood on the sets of Shukno Lanka at Soho on Saturday afternoon, where director Gaurav Pandey was shooting a disco sequence.

But amidst the merry-making Mithun was also trying to hide his emotions, for in Shukno Lanka he plays the struggling junior artiste Chinu Nandi, a role that is close to his heart.

“I had started my career doing bit roles in films like Do Anjane. I don’t know if anyone remembers me in those films anymore. I have done many films where I had just one scene. I have seen the highs and lows of life. I have tasted success but I have never forgotten my past. That’s why when I was offered the role of a junior artiste, I got very excited,” said Mithun, with a faraway look in his eyes.

“I have never played this kind of a character before. And midway into the shooting, I have become emotionally involved with my character. Also, because back in Mumbai I am the chairman of the film industry’s labour union and the character of Chinu Nandi has touched my heart,” he added.

Mithun has also designed his look in the film — salt-and-pepper hair with a side parting. “Everyone in the team has liked the look. I have got a haircut to suit the role.... It’s a fantastic script and I am giving my 100 per cent. I have never believed in 99.9 per cent.”

So, what’s Chinu Nandi like?

“Chinu is a simple man who lives with his wife. One day someone from his para tells him that he looks like Uttam Kumar from the back. Chinu gets carried away. There’s a twist and Chinu gets to enjoy all the luxuries of life for 20 days! He rides the best car and dines in the best hotel. His life changes completely. So, you can say it’s my life because I was lucky to have got the opportunity to work with Mrinalda (Sen) in Mrigaya. Yet, it’s not my life. I think my success has lasted more than 20 days!” he quipped.