In 2023, actor Shah Rukh Khan collaborated with director Atlee for the first time in the action-drama film Jawan. The film emerged as one of the biggest commercial successes of the year and attracted attention for its large-scale storytelling and ensemble cast. Apart from Khan in the lead role, the film featured Vijay Sethupathi as the primary antagonist, along with actors Nayanthara and Deepika Padukone in key roles. Vijay Sethupathi portrayed the character Kalee Gaikwad, a powerful and ruthless opponent whose conflict with Shah Rukh Khan’s character forms one of the central narrative elements of the film.

In a recent interview with Variety India, Vijay Sethupathi spoke about his decision to take on the role in Jawan. The actor explained that his choice was influenced mainly by two factors: the opportunity to work with Shah Rukh Khan and his admiration for Atlee’s filmmaking style. Sethupathi stated that he has long appreciated the way Atlee constructs scenes and builds emotional intensity in his films. According to him, the director demonstrates a strong understanding of pacing and knows how to develop moments within a story so that they engage audiences effectively. This approach, Sethupathi said, gave him confidence in the project.

The actor also emphasized that working with Shah Rukh Khan played a significant role in his decision. Sethupathi noted that collaborating with an established star such as Khan was a major reason for accepting the role. He explained that the combination of Atlee’s direction and Shah Rukh Khan’s presence in the film made the project appealing from the beginning. For Sethupathi, the chance to be part of a large-scale Hindi production alongside one of the industry’s most prominent actors was an opportunity he chose not to decline.

During the conversation, Vijay Sethupathi also shared an interesting behind-the-scenes detail about one of his memorable moments from the film. He revealed that a particular scene involving Shah Rukh Khan was not originally planned in the way audiences eventually saw it. Instead, the moment evolved during the dubbing process after filming had already been completed. The actor explained that the scene appears just before the film’s climax, when his character enters a jail carrying a baseball bat and confronts the protagonist.

In the sequence, Shah Rukh Khan portrays two characters a father and a son who appear in different parts of the narrative. Sethupathi’s character enters the jail while the father is imprisoned, and the tension builds as he prepares to confront both characters. According to the actor, when the scene was initially filmed, certain details that appear in the final version had not yet been included. The improvisation occurred later during post-production while the actors were recording dialogue for the film.

Sethupathi explained that during dubbing he experimented with the rhythm of the scene and played a song titled Kalyana Chayal Chaatham simply as a reference for timing while imagining how his character might move or behave in the moment. He said he felt like dancing to the rhythm and enjoyed the process of improvising the character’s energy. Later, Shah Rukh Khan suggested adding a playful element to the scene by introducing a line that compared the character to Santa Claus bringing a gift.

Following Khan’s suggestion, Sethupathi attempted to sing part of the song and adapt it to the character’s body language even though there was no visible lip movement during the scene. The actor also recalled that Shah Rukh Khan demonstrated how to deliver a Santa-like laugh, encouraging him to say “ho ho ho” in a particular tone. This improvisation was recorded during dubbing and later retained in the final version of the film. Sethupathi noted that the moment illustrated how additional creative ideas can sometimes emerge during post-production rather than during filming.

Reflecting on the experience, the actor described the collaboration as enjoyable and said the improvisation added an unexpected layer to the character. He also highlighted that such changes demonstrate the flexibility of filmmaking, where scenes can continue to evolve even after the camera stops rolling. The final version of the moment remained in the film, allowing audiences to see a piece of creativity that originated in the dubbing studio.

While Jawan remains one of Sethupathi’s notable appearances in Hindi cinema, the actor continues to work across multiple film industries in India, including Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi projects. He is currently promoting his upcoming series Muthu Alias Kaattaan, which is scheduled to release on the streaming platform JioHotstar on March 27. As his career continues to expand across languages and formats, Sethupathi remains known for his willingness to experiment with different roles and collaborate with filmmakers from diverse backgrounds.

Actor Govinda was one of the most prominent stars of Hindi cinema during the 1990s, known for his energetic performances, comic timing, and a long list of commercially successful films. However, along with his success came a reputation that often followed him throughout his career that he frequently arrived late on film sets or sometimes failed to show up according to schedule. This perception, discussed widely within industry circles and media reports, created challenges for several filmmakers who had to manage tight shooting timelines and complex production schedules. Over the years, many directors and producers spoke about these difficulties while reflecting on their experiences working with the actor.

Filmmaker Priyadarshan recently revisited this topic while speaking about his experience directing Govinda in the comedy film Bhagam Bhaag. During an interview with Mashable India, Priyadarshan shared that he was initially hesitant about casting Govinda because of the stories he had heard regarding the actor’s punctuality. The director explained that Govinda’s reputation had become widely known in the industry, making some filmmakers cautious before working with him. Despite these concerns, Priyadarshan ultimately decided to include him in the project.

Priyadarshan recalled that he addressed the issue directly with Govinda before filming began. According to the director, he told the actor openly that he had heard several accounts about his delays and asked him to reconsider joining the film if he believed he would not be able to arrive on time. The filmmaker explained that maintaining a strict schedule was important for completing the project efficiently. Surprisingly for him, Govinda reportedly arrived on time throughout the shoot, which changed the director’s perception. Priyadarshan said he eventually enjoyed the collaboration and appreciated the actor’s dedication during the production process.

The director also described a moment he considers one of his personal professional achievements. He mentioned that after receiving the Padma Shri, he was asked in an interview whether that recognition represented the biggest accomplishment of his career. Priyadarshan responded that another milestone felt equally significant to him: successfully getting both Govinda and Salman Khan to report for an early morning shoot at 5 a.m. and completing the film within the scheduled timeframe. The remark was shared in a humorous tone but also highlighted the challenges that filmmakers sometimes face when coordinating large productions with multiple actors.

While Priyadarshan praised Govinda’s punctuality during the filming of Bhagam Bhaag, he also noted another characteristic of the actor’s working style. According to the director, Govinda often liked to improvise during scenes, occasionally adding his own lines or modifying dialogues while performing. Improvisation is not uncommon in the film industry, especially among actors known for their comic timing. However, Priyadarshan recalled that he once jokingly told Govinda that he had already hired screenwriter Neeraj Vora to write the film’s dialogues and did not require another writer on the set.

Govinda himself addressed the long-standing allegations about his punctuality in an appearance on a talk show hosted by Kajol and Twinkle Khanna. During the conversation, the actor suggested that the criticism surrounding his time management had been exaggerated over the years. He argued that during the peak of his career he often worked multiple shifts in a single day, which made it difficult to maintain perfect punctuality for every schedule. According to Govinda, managing several shoots simultaneously required moving quickly between different film sets, sometimes across long distances.

The actor explained that such demanding work routines could lead to unavoidable delays, especially when external factors such as heavy traffic, extended filming hours, or waiting for other departments slowed down production. Govinda stated that these occasional delays were sometimes magnified through rumours and industry gossip, eventually creating a narrative that he was habitually late to work. He suggested that the situation was more complicated than it appeared publicly and reflected the intense workload actors often faced during busy periods of their careers.

Govinda also expressed the view that misunderstandings within the film industry should be addressed with mutual respect and support rather than public criticism. He emphasized that collaboration in filmmaking depends on teamwork among actors, directors, technicians, and production staff. According to him, acknowledging the pressures faced by individuals within the industry could help reduce the spread of negative rumours and maintain healthier professional relationships.

The discussion surrounding Govinda’s punctuality highlights a broader issue often faced in film production — balancing demanding work schedules with the expectations of large teams working toward strict deadlines. While differing perspectives continue to exist about the actor’s reputation, accounts from filmmakers like Priyadarshan suggest that professional experiences can vary depending on the circumstances and the individuals involved.

Filmmaker and choreographer Farah Khan recently spoke about her long-standing professional and personal relationship with actor Shah Rukh Khan, offering insights into what he was like during the early years of his career. The two have shared a close association for decades and have collaborated on numerous films and songs since the 1990s. During a conversation with content creator Ranveer Allahbadia, Farah reflected on her first impressions of the actor, recalling that before working with him she had formed a very different image of his personality based on interviews she had read at the time.

Their professional relationship dates back to the 1994 film Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa, which marked the first time Farah choreographed a song for Shah Rukh Khan. The collaboration eventually developed into a long creative partnership that produced several well-known films and musical sequences in Hindi cinema. Over the years, Farah directed Shah Rukh Khan in films such as Main Hoon Na, Om Shanti Om, and Happy New Year, while also choreographing many of his popular songs. Their frequent collaborations and visible camaraderie have made them one of the more notable actor-director partnerships in the industry.

During the interview, Farah explained that she did not personally know Shah Rukh Khan before working with him on Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa. At the time, her perception of him was largely shaped by magazine interviews and public statements she had come across. According to her, those early interviews made him appear outspoken and somewhat brash. She recalled that some of his remarks in those conversations were unusually blunt for a young actor who had only recently entered the film industry. This led her to initially believe that he had a very bold and confrontational personality.

Farah said that after she began working with him, she realised that the impression she had formed earlier did not fully match the person she encountered on set. She noted that although Shah Rukh Khan was indeed very competitive, his competitiveness was not directed toward overshadowing others or seeking individual attention. Instead, she described it as a kind of motivation aimed at ensuring that the film itself performed well. According to Farah, this approach influenced how he behaved during collaborative work, especially when sharing scenes with other actors.

She explained that even in the 1990s he displayed a strong desire to ensure that a project succeeded as a whole rather than focusing solely on his own performance. Farah observed that when acting alongside other performers, Shah Rukh Khan would often help them during scenes rather than attempt to dominate the moment. In her view, his competitiveness was about the overall success of the film rather than about personal recognition.

Farah also commented on his work ethic, noting that despite becoming one of the most prominent stars in the Hindi film industry, he has remained relatively unchanged in his professional attitude. She described him as someone who does not display the typical mannerisms often associated with superstardom. According to her, he continues to behave in a straightforward and approachable manner while working on film sets. She added that he treats colleagues and crew members with the same level of respect regardless of his status.

Another aspect she highlighted was his commitment to hard work. Farah remarked that even after decades of success, Shah Rukh Khan continues to approach his work with the same intensity he had during the early phase of his career. In fact, she suggested that he may be working even harder now than he did in the past. For her, this consistency has been one of the defining characteristics of his personality throughout their long association.

Reflecting on the nature of competitiveness in the film industry, Farah suggested that Shah Rukh Khan’s approach offers a useful perspective for actors. She emphasised that he has always prioritised the success of the film rather than focusing solely on personal recognition. In her view, this mindset contributes to stronger collaboration and ultimately benefits everyone involved in a project.

Through her recollections, Farah Khan provided a glimpse into the professional dynamic she has shared with Shah Rukh Khan since their early collaboration. Her comments highlighted how initial public perceptions of a celebrity can sometimes differ from the reality experienced by colleagues who work closely with them.

Actor Akshay Kumar recently shared an emotional account of losing his father to prostate cancer while speaking at a public discussion with journalist Rajdeep Sardesai during a conclave. During the conversation, Kumar reflected on the personal impact of his father’s illness and used the moment to highlight the importance of preventive health check-ups for men, particularly those above the age of 50.

Kumar spoke candidly about the loss, describing his father as the most important person in his life. He explained that discussing his father’s death remains difficult because of the deep bond they shared. According to the actor, the experience of losing him continues to shape how he views health awareness and preventive care.

The actor revealed that his father died at the age of 67 after battling prostate cancer. At the time, Kumar said, his family did not fully understand the importance of regular screening tests that could help detect the disease early. Reflecting on that period, he said the lack of awareness about routine health checks contributed to their inability to detect the illness sooner.

He specifically mentioned the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test, a blood test used to screen for signs of prostate cancer. Kumar explained that he only later learned that men above the age of 50 — and sometimes earlier depending on risk factors — are often advised to undergo regular PSA testing. According to him, this information was not widely discussed or understood when his father was alive.

Kumar said that if he had known about the need for regular PSA screenings earlier, the situation might have been different. He noted that many families, like his own at the time, may not be aware of preventive tests that can help detect certain diseases before symptoms appear. Because of this gap in awareness, he believes many people may miss opportunities for early diagnosis.

During the discussion, Kumar stressed that preventive healthcare education remains a major challenge. He observed that people often seek medical attention only after symptoms become severe, rather than undergoing routine screening that could identify potential health issues earlier. In his view, spreading awareness about simple medical tests can help individuals make better decisions about their health.

The actor used the platform to encourage men above the age of 50 to consider getting regular PSA tests. He emphasized that routine screening could help detect prostate cancer in its early stages, when treatment options are often more effective. Kumar described early detection as a critical factor that can significantly influence health outcomes.

He also highlighted that prostate cancer is among the most common cancers affecting men worldwide. Medical experts have long pointed out that the risk increases with age, particularly after 50. While not every elevated PSA level indicates cancer, the test can act as an early indicator that prompts further medical evaluation.

Kumar noted that health awareness is not just about individual well-being but also about the impact on families. Serious illnesses can affect entire households emotionally and financially, which is why preventive care becomes important for long-term stability and quality of life.

By sharing his personal experience, Kumar aimed to draw attention to the broader issue of health education and routine screening. His remarks focused on the need for people to stay informed about recommended medical tests and to prioritise regular check-ups as part of maintaining overall health.

Medical professionals generally advise individuals to consult doctors regarding appropriate screening schedules, especially if they have family history or other risk factors associated with prostate cancer. Increased awareness and timely medical consultation, experts say, can help improve outcomes for many patients.

Few comic characters in Hindi cinema have achieved the enduring popularity of Baburao Ganpatrao Apte, portrayed by veteran actor Paresh Rawal in the comedy film Hera Pheri and its sequel Phir Hera Pheri. With his thick spectacles, distinctive Marathi accent, and memorable comic timing, the character became a defining part of the franchise’s success. Baburao’s eccentric personality and humorous dialogues helped the films gain a cult following over the years, making him one of the most recognizable comic characters in Bollywood. However, Rawal has recently spoken about the challenges that came with the immense popularity of the role.

In an earlier interview with The Lallantop, Paresh Rawal described the character as a “gale ka phanda,” which translates to a noose around his neck. The actor explained that while the role brought him immense recognition, it also created a sense of creative confinement. According to him, the success of Baburao led to a strong association between the actor and the character, which made it difficult for audiences and filmmakers to see him in different types of roles. Rawal admitted that the situation eventually made him feel restricted and that he wanted to move away from the image that had become so closely tied to him.

Rawal also recalled that after the release of Phir Hera Pheri in 2006, he approached filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj in search of a project that could help him break away from the established comic persona. He expressed a desire to portray a character that would contrast sharply with Baburao while still retaining certain visual elements associated with the role. The intention, he explained, was to demonstrate his range as an actor and avoid being confined to a single type of performance.

Following these comments, filmmaker Priyadarshan, who directed Hera Pheri, shared his perspective on the matter during a conversation with Pinkvilla. Priyadarshan recalled that when the film was being developed, he personally contacted Paresh Rawal to discuss the character. According to the director, Rawal was enthusiastic about the role from the beginning. Priyadarshan said that he had clearly explained that Baburao would essentially be the central figure of the film, while the characters played by Akshay Kumar and Suniel Shetty would function as supporting roles in the narrative.

The director stated that Rawal readily accepted the part and was eager to bring the character to life. At the time, Rawal had largely been associated with negative or serious roles in films. Priyadarshan believes that Baburao provided the actor with an opportunity to explore a completely different dimension of his talent. According to him, Rawal embraced the character wholeheartedly and delivered a performance that ultimately became iconic.

Before Hera Pheri, Paresh Rawal had already established himself as a versatile actor in the Hindi film industry. Over the years, he had appeared in numerous films portraying a wide range of characters, including antagonists, supporting roles, and intense dramatic parts. Performances in films such as Andaz Apna Apna, Sir, and Naam had earned him recognition for his ability to adapt to diverse roles. Despite this versatility, he had rarely been seen as the primary source of comic energy in a film before Hera Pheri.

The success of Baburao significantly altered that perception. After the film’s release, Rawal was frequently cast in comedic roles, which led to several popular performances in films such as Hungama, Garam Masala, and Bhool Bhulaiyaa. His ability to balance humor with expressive character acting helped him become one of the most recognizable comic performers in mainstream Hindi cinema.

More than two decades after Hera Pheri first released, the character of Baburao Apte continues to hold a strong presence in popular culture. Scenes and dialogues from the film frequently circulate on social media, often used as memes or humorous references by fans. The character’s quirks, mannerisms, and dialogue delivery remain widely recognized, highlighting the long-lasting impact of Rawal’s performance.

The recent discussion between Paresh Rawal’s remarks and Priyadarshan’s response offers insight into how iconic roles can shape an actor’s career in complex ways. While such characters can bring immense popularity and audience affection, they can also create expectations that influence the types of roles an actor is offered in the future. In the case of Baburao Apte, the character’s legacy continues to be celebrated by audiences while also sparking conversations about the artistic challenges that can accompany such enduring success.