Did Neem Karoli Baba's ashram influence The Family Man? Manoj Bajpayee reveals the unknown connection

Manoj Bajpayee has long been regarded as one of India’s most versatile actors, known for his intense performances in films and OTT projects over the last two decades. From Gangs of Wasseypur to The Family Man and Inspector Zhende, he has consistently pushed the boundaries of his craft. Yet, even accomplished actors go through moments of uncertainty, and Bajpayee recently revealed that a period of restlessness nearly made him step away from acting. His journey back to clarity, he says, was guided by a spiritual experience at Neem Karoli Baba’s Kainchi Dham in Uttarakhand, which also became the foundation for his latest film, Jugnuma – The Fable.

Restless Phase and a Search for Answers

Speaking to Just Too Filmy, Bajpayee described feeling unsettled and uncertain about his future in the film industry. Before his breakthrough with The Family Man Season 1, he spent nearly a year without work and was questioning his path as an actor. It was during this period of introspection that he, along with director Raam Reddy, decided to visit Kainchi Dham.

The actor recounted how the journey was more than a simple research trip. After an hour-long climb and meditation at Babaji’s cave, he described a profound experience that offered clarity and direction. Both he and Reddy felt that the vision for Jugnuma crystallized at that moment, describing it as a magical realization. Bajpayee said the visit helped him understand detachment and letting go of attachments, which gave him the perspective he had been seeking.

The Spiritual Themes of Jugnuma

The film, Bajpayee explained, mirrors the lessons he encountered at Kainchi Dham. Jugnuma – The Fable explores themes of liberation, detachment, and inner peace. The protagonist’s journey reflects the idea that excessive attachment leads to challenges, whereas letting go can open the door to freedom. Bajpayee likened his connection to the film’s character as multifaceted, stating that in essence, the spiritual experience at Kainchi Dham shaped both his and Reddy’s approach to the story.

Film Details and Cast

Directed by Raam Reddy, Jugnuma – The Fable features Manoj Bajpayee alongside Deepak Dobriyal, Priyanka Bose, Hiral Sidhu, Awan Pookot, and Tillotama Shome. The project is produced by Prspctvs Productions, co-produced by Maxmedia and Sikhya Entertainment, and distributed by Flip Films. Academy Award winner Guneet Monga and filmmaker Anurag Kashyap are presenting the film.