Alia Bhatt ‘could have ignored me and been professional’ on Gangubai Kathiawadi set but she did THIS: Shantanu Maheshwari spills tea

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The movie Gangubai Kathiawadi, headed by Alia Bhatt, is among the most acclaimed films in Indian cinema. It garnered numerous awards due to Alia’s exceptional acting abilities and compelling narrative. Now, Shantanu Maheshwari, portraying Afsaan, has discussed his experience working alongside her. He mentioned that she could have been just professional on set, but instead, the actress took efforts to make him feel at ease.

In a recent conversation with SCREEN, Shantanu praised Alia Bhatt as extraordinary. He admired Alia Bhatt for her kindness on set, explaining how she made him feel relaxed even though she’s such a prominent star. He revealed that the actress not only enhanced his acting with her responses but also cultivated a comfortable atmosphere around herself that enabled him to fully embody his character.

The actor from The Campus Beats Season 5 remarked, “She didn’t need to acknowledge me, but she chose to make me feel at ease, considering the broader context. This act of kindness was incredibly beneficial for me.

As a devoted admirer, I’d like to share my perspective on how the film Gangubai Kathiawadi marked a pivotal moment in my professional odyssey. I’ve been open about the transformation that took place within me, not just in terms of acting but also preparation-wise. This project has undeniably left an indelible impact on my approach and performance.

The actor emphasized the significance of establishing robust communication with directors and cameramen, enabling him to delve deeper and expand his skills. He further mentioned that while Gangubai Kathiawadi wasn’t solely responsible, it was a blend of experiences that taught him the importance of being prepared and learning from those he collaborates with.

Maheshwari admitted to initially feeling apprehensive when collaborating with director Sanjay Leela Bhansali on Gangubai Kathiawadi. He revealed that those around him frequently cautioned him against being overawed. Yet, he expressed that Bhansali was always transparent, fervent, and never unduly severe in his approach.

As a dedicated follower, I can tell you that Shantanu Maheshwari shared insights about SLB’s distinctive approach to guiding his performers. Instead of moving on after a single scene, he would revisit them multiple times, conduct rehearsals, and offer directions not for mechanical reproduction but for deeper understanding and internalization. Shantanu likened this process to an engaging and enlightening journey that pushed him as an actor to his limits. He also mentioned that the director would provide feedback sparingly, allowing each actor the freedom to interpret and deliver their lines in their own unique way.

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2025-04-24 18:07