As regards the power his disciple generates, Banerjee puts it down to his pahari origins. ‘He always had powerful arms. Pahari people are generally strong mentally and physically. They’re used to going up and down (the hill trail), and in Mahi’s case, woh khaata bhi bahut tha (he used to eat a lot). Back then, he would eat whatever he got. Now he’s a raja. He can eat whatever he wants. Dildaar hai khaane mein! (He has a voracious appetite!)’
