‘Inspector Zalim Singh’

Shekhawat (second from rt) puts the Club in a quandry

Shekhawat dropped a clanger today when he threatened to walk out of his role as Inspector Zalim Singh (ref post of December 5, 2018) citing domestic compulsions. “I have a wedding to attend in Rajasthan on February 17,” he informed. “Since you are planning the Annual Function for February 23, I’d have to withdraw from the play. Better give the Zalim Singh role to someone else.”
The statement drew mixed responses ranging from surprise to consternation and amusement, as though Shekhawat was pulling a fast one. Many like Siba Prasad Maitra and Yusuf Rassiwala simply dismissed it as a poor joke.

Lt Col Angad Singh (rtd)

“You better go tell your people not to have the shaadi till we are done with our Annual Function,” advised Bijoy Gupta.
Inspector Zalim Singh is an author-backed role, written specially for Shekhawat -- given his track record of playing Kadak Singh Jailer (in police uniform) at the Annual Function last year. This time also he holds the main lead, something that tickles him to bits and would not easily let go as long as he can help it.
The issue cropped up when we were informed that Lt Col Angad Singh (rtd) would be joining us from next week and had called up yesterday from Bangalore to sound us on his returning to Mumbai. Incidentally, he had also essayed a key role in the play last year. Taking advantage of the situation, Gupta threw a challenge at Shekhawat: “Don’t think without you the play will not happen. There are several people eager to be Zalim Singh.”
Shekhawat promptly did a U-turn: “No, no, no… I’m not saying I’d be backing out. I shall do Zalim Singh’s role. All I am saying is if you could please adjust your date for the Annual Function.”

Lt Col Angad Singh (rtd):
I am sure Shekhawat will acquit himself well in the role of Inspector Zalim Singh. It is high time we fix a date for the Annual Function, adhere to it and start our preparations in right earnest. My coming has nothing to do with the role of Zalim Singh. Let Shekhawat display his histrionic talent. I am sure the function will be a treat to the eye and ear.