Manoj Bajpai's on cloud nine

On a high
I am very happy with the response I have got for Gangs of Wasseypur. Working on the film gave me a huge creative high. The accolades I have received will egg me on to do better.

Overcoming odds
I was at home without work for almost a year. It was a very difficult phase. Being an actor is never easy though (laughs). But I wasn't ready to compromise on my dream of working in films so early. That kept me going.

I, the inspiration
Yes, I did say in a recent interview that I am my own inspiration. As an actor, I have immense hunger for growth and better roles. I don't need anyone to urge me on.

Always Ava
Nothing beats the happiness that I derive from my daughter, Ava. She is one and a half years old. The only word she can say now is Mamma. I would like to believe that I am a hands-on father, but you should confirm that with Shabana, my wife.