Having come a long way in Bollywood, Vicky Kaushal is one of the very few actors in the Hindi film industry today, who’s worked in almost every genre — thriller, biopic, comedy, drama, etc.
And now he is all set to romance Sara Ali Khan in Laxman Utekar’s film. At least word on the street is that filmmaker Dinesh Vijan has signed Vicky and Sara Ali Khan for his next production, to be directed by Laxman Utekar, maker of the 2021 film Mini. Apparently, the director has already started pre-production in Madhya Pradesh. This film is said to be a romantic comedy set in the backdrop of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna Programme.
And by Vicky’s response to our query, it seems to be more than a rumour. Baat toh chal rahi hai (The talks are on) with director Laxman Utekar, but there has to be a formal announcement from their side. So wait for the announcements. Presently, I can just say ‘Talks are going on,’” he says with a smile. Getting on a quick chat with us, Vicky talks about his next film, what he learnt from Sardar Udham and how lucky he feels to have done roles across different genres.
Q You’re rumoured to have a few films in a row at hand. How does that feel?
Yes, I have two films waiting. One is with Yashraj Films & Dharma Productions. They will officially announce the details. I also have more biographies, one of which is of Sam Bahadur. So, touchwood! God is great to be bestowing upon me such opportunities and to be sending to me new stories so I can explore varied roles as an actor. I will keep trying to do different characters so I can grow.
Q Not many know that Sardar Udham was to be played by the late actor Irrfan Khan. How does it feel to know that you replaced him?
Firstly, I believe nobody can replace Irrfan Khan sahib. It’s unfortunate that he has left for the heavenly abode. If he had to do this role, he’d have done a great job. If I have done even 1% of what he’d have done, I feel I’ve done a great job. He was a great actor all across the world. It’s a privilege that I got the role that he was going to play. And I hope I’ve delivered the role with the gravity he would have. That would be a small tribute from me to him.
Q You played the role of an angry Udham Singh. Do you have issues managing your anger?
I just remain cool. I deal with my anger with calmness. When I am angry I also like to be quiet and isolate myself totally. It takes me just an hour or so to get back to normal. But if someone comes and tries to discuss, then maybe my anger might burst out. I also get cranky if I don’t get food or if I have done a lot of work. I love to be quiet in odd situations.
Q Did playing this role have any effect on you?
I would like to believe I’ve more self-control in me now. Also realising how one person could keep his ideologies patiently within himself was also a great learning experience for me.
