Manoj Bajpayee, who has impressed the audience and critics alike with two back-to-back films, Gali Guleiyan and Love Sonia, says he doesn't let appreciation or criticism affect him.

On handling rejection during his struggling days, Manoj says, "I believe a dream that doesn't let you sleep is worth living for. I do not let the opinions of others affect me. If a person praises my work, I humbly thank them and remain grounded. Similarly, if a person criticises my work, I don't take it too seriously." He also adds, "It is important to steer clear of feelings that depress you or bring you down. And, I do not give anyone the right to cause these feelings in me."

The actor, famous for films like Satya, Shool, Gangs Of Wasseypur and Shahid, is known to seamlessly bring his own characteristics to his roles. 

"When I started my acting career, the concept of a casting director did not exist. I would learn poems or stories and act them out for directors during their lunch hour. This constantly kept me in practice and helped me improve my skill as an actor," he says.