Gully Boy inspiration, Naezy, has been involved with the film from past 18 months!

Mumbai: Naved Shaikh aka Naezy is one story that acts as a source of inspiration to hundreds of aspiring rappers in India. Born in the slums of Mumbai, Naezy first found his true calling when he was a teenager struggling with finding clarity in life.

Now, he is not only an established rapper but also the subject of renowned Director, Zoya Akhtar’s, next film called ‘Gully Boy’. Ranveer Singh, who plays Naezy in the film, will be trained by the rapper.

“I have been working on this project for the past 18 months. Zoya first heard of me while she was editing Dil Dhadakne Do (2015) and saw the video of my song, Aafat. She was surprised that Mumbai slums have so much talent. Our first meeting was at Blue Frog in Lower Parel (shut down last August) where we were performing for MTV Indies (off air since last September). A common friend, Ankur Tiwari, arranged a few more meetings,” revealed Naezy to a tabloid.

Not just that, the Director has even requested Naved to oen a few dialogues for the film. “The dialogues are in Hindi and English, but once we are on board, we will help turn it the way we speak. She also intends to retain some of my original tracks in the film. Ankur will supervise the music,” he said.

So does he approve of the casting?

“I like the guy. We worked together for a song in Hey Bro (2015). He is a versatile actor and I have no doubts that he can effortlessly play an emperor in Padmavati and a rapper in this film,” he added.