Hansal Mehta recalls Anurag Kashyap saying, ‘I’m Not Even Getting a Rupee for Him’ about Rajkummar Rao and why he didn’t want to see him for Shahid.
Hansal Mehta told Pinkvilla how he chose Rajkummar Rao for Shahid’s starring part. The actor’s cinematic performance changed his career.
Hansal Mehta reported a fascinating casting story. He first refused to meet Rajkummar Rao. Anurag Kashyap persisted, stating, “Yaar, I’m not even getting a rupee for him.”
Hansal said he felt unconvincing at the moment. He requested Anurag Kashyap’s name for Shahid to promote the film. Anurag said it was “payback time” because Hansal helped him start.
Anurag told him to disregard the stars and other things. An actor named Rajkummar Rao. He and I did Gangs of Wasseypur. Only meet him once.”
Rajkummar appeared in Love Sex Aur Dhokha, Gangs of Wasseypur, and a brief appearance in Shaitan, according to Anurag. Even casting director Mukesh Chhabra advised him to see Rajkummar.
Hansal initially asked, “What will I do after meeting him?” One day, he called and asked someone to meet Rajkummar for tea and send him back.
He was surprised to find Rajkummar outside the office. The filmmaker sensed something unique after entering and sitting in front of Hansal.
Hansal announced to his wife after 10 minutes that he had discovered the actor to play Shahid.
He informed Rajkummar immediately that he would play the role. He added, “Now we must figure out how to make this film together. You’ll help me make this movie.”
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