My director Neeraj Pandey told me to copy Ajay Devgn's style of walking in Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha, says Shantanu Maheshwari | EXCLUSIVE

The last week saw the release of Ajay Devgn, Tabu starrer Auron Mein Kahaan Dum Tha. Amidst the presence of the two gigantic superstars, there was also the suave Shantanu Maheshwari who left everyone stunned with his stellar performance in the film. DesiMartini caught up with the actor for an exclusive interview, wherein, he has spoken all about the film Auron Mein Kahaan Dum Tha, the casting process, his audition and much more. Over to you... Shantanu…

Looking back in time, from your days in The Park English School to St. Joseph’s College, Kolkata to H.R. College of Commerce and Economics to Street Soul Dance Crew to debut in Dil Dosti Dance till Auron Mein Kahaan Dum Tha…. you have indeed come a long way. Which have been your most memorable milestone/s in your career?
There are way too many. To be honest, coming to Mumbai was the first milestone in my life. I shifted to Mumbai for my studies. To be a part of the entertainment industry was never on my to-do list at all. Also, I did not know many people here. All that I was ‘armed’ with was my dance. Then, Dil Dosti Dance happened, which proved to be a major milestone in my career. This was followed by the ‘World Of Dance’ which happened on an international stage. Then, Gangubai Kathiawadi and many other other good things happened.

Also Read: Auron Mein Kahaan Dum Tha review- This Ajay Devgn, Tabu starrer starts off as a romantic drama only to culminate into a whodunit thriller! 

Speaking of Auron Mein Kahaan Dum Tha, how did you come on board with the film?
The casting director had approached me saying that they have seen my previous works and that I fit the bill perfectly. What followed after that were a series of auditions which went on for two months. Then, the final screen test happened with Neeraj Pandey Sir.

During your audition, were you aware that the film stars THE superstars Ajay Devgn and Tabu?
I was aware of Ajay sir, but, at that time, Tabu mam had not come on board. I had been told that, I was playing the younger version of Ajay sir.

Did the fact that playing the younger version of Ajay Devgn put any kind of extra pressure on you?
Initially no. But as days passed by… the pressure started mounting in my mind. There were people around me who were like ‘Oh… you are the one playing the younger version of Ajay sir’! That pressure was always there on me. But, as workshops started, pressure was kind of eased off my shoulders, and I was totally concentrating on my craft. Neeraj sir was always there to guide me at every step.

Also Read: Is Tabu not open to playing 30-year-olds? Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha actress' reply will shock you

Did Neeraj Pandey tell you to copy any mannerism/s of Ajay Devgn?
Yes… he told me to copy Ajay sir’s style of walking in the film. Those who have seen the film can connect with me on that front.

How was your first interaction with Ajay Devgn and Tabu?
Looking back, Ajay sir had given me the trophy of Khatron Ke Khiladi. That way, I had met him before. But, with Tabu mam, this was my first interaction. The official introductions with the two superstars actually happened with this film.

What are the parameters based on which you decide to choose a film?
To be honest, there are multiple factors involved while choosing any project. The story needs to be good and my role in the film. This is followed by the director’s vision. He should be talking stories and not films.

After seeing your performance in the film Auron Mein Kahaan Dum Tha, many have put your intensity (in the film and the role) at par with that of Ajay Devgn. Not many have been fortunate enough to get that compliment for their craft. How does it feel to get such compliments, and that too… at such a young age!
The very first time I heard this question… the first thing that crossed my mind is that I have to give total credit to Neeraj sir for envisioning a subject like this. Such compliments give me a lot of credibility and visibility. I am happy with the way things are shaping up. That does not mean that I will change even a bit!

Is there any scene that you thought that you could have done better?
Not really. I gave my cent per cent to every scene. 

Which has been the toughest scene in the film?
The scene in which I explain to Saiee (near the Gateway of India) all about my background. This was that aspect of filmmaking which was covering so many layers in one go. Plus, the last scene was very crucial and very heavy.

Who is your biggest critic?
My parents and my close friends… They have been very upright about my performance. If they approve of anything, I feel gratified and happy.

You have done reality shows like Khatron Ke Khiladi, Nach Baliye, Jhalak dikhla Jaa and many international reality shows as well. Anything on your bucket list now… like Say Bigg Boss?
I have been approached multiple times for Bigg Boss. I am not cut out for Bigg Boss (smiles).

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