Comedian and actor Vir Das recently opened up about his challenging first experience on a Bollywood set, recalling a stark contrast in treatment alongside stars Rishi Kapoor and Katrina Kaif during the filming of ‘Namastey London’.
Stepping Onto a Bollywood Set
Before his international comedy fame, Vir Das made his acting debut in Vipul Amrutlal Shah’s 2007 film ‘Namastey London’. He played “prospective groom number three” for Katrina Kaif’s character, Jasmine.
In a recent interview on the ‘Moments of Silence’ podcast, Das shared his initial disorientation. As a theatre actor, he was unfamiliar with film production nuances, including the concept of dubbing for dialogue.
A Tale of Two Treatments
Das vividly recounted a scene shot on a terrace featuring Rishi Kapoor, Nina Wadia, and Katrina Kaif, alongside himself and the actress playing his on-screen mother. He described the setup as a clear divide: the senior actors enjoyed shade under umbrellas, while he and his “junior artiste” mother were left “baking in the sun.”
Adding to his confusion, Katrina Kaif delivered her lines in a barely audible whisper throughout the takes. Das initially wondered if this was part of her character, only to realize later she was likely conserving her voice for dubbing.
The Disappearing Act
The scene involved multiple takes and camera setups. Each time, the main actors would perform, with Katrina still whispering her lines. Das and his on-screen mother continued to endure the harsh sun, visibly sweating and changing shades, as he put it.
The stark difference in treatment became even more apparent when it was finally time for Vir Das’s close-up. To his surprise, Rishi Kapoor, Katrina Kaif, and Nina Wadia all got up and left the set, as they were not required to be present for his shot.
Das was left to complete his scene with only the third assistant director, a common practice but a humbling experience for a newcomer.
Rishi Kapoor’s Unexpected Kindness
Despite the initial challenges, Vir Das shared a heartwarming interaction with the late Rishi Kapoor. The veteran actor approached him, asked his name, and extended a hand in greeting.
Das playfully described the moment, likening shaking Kapoor’s hand to becoming “Tina Munim from Karz,” feeling a surge of respect and admiration. Kapoor then offered some profound advice: “You are a great actor. Shake my hand. Promise me you will never leave acting.”
Remarkably, within moments of Rishi Kapoor walking away, an umbrella was immediately placed over Vir Das’s head, signifying a sudden shift in his on-set experience.
- Vir Das’s debut film ‘Namastey London’ gave him an early lesson in Bollywood’s hierarchical structure.
- He experienced a clear disparity in treatment between himself and senior actors like Rishi Kapoor and Katrina Kaif, especially regarding comfort on set.
- Despite the initial difficulties, a kind gesture and encouraging words from Rishi Kapoor significantly impacted his morale and immediate treatment.
This early experience highlights the steep learning curve for newcomers in the film industry and the lasting impact of both challenges and mentorship.
