Dunki: Rajkumar Hirani Reveals Why He Didn’t Work With SRK Earlier: ‘It Took Me 20 Years…’

Dunki director Rajkumar Hirani revealed in an interview that he had been patiently waiting for Shah Rukh Khan to collaborate in a film for 20 years. Read on for more information.

Director and producer Rajkumar Hiraniwhose recent movie Dunki recommended Shah Rukh Khan starring was released in theaters on December 21, 2023. The filmmaker took time to discuss the reasons and timing of his decision to work with SRK. In an interview with News18, he also expressed his admiration for the actor’s charisma. During the conversation, Rajkumar Hirani explains that he had patience for twenty years while casting SRK in his film. Read on to know what the director said.

Rajkumar explains why he waited patiently for SRK for twenty years

Rajkumar reminisced, “During my time in film school, the biggest challenge for any aspiring filmmaker was figuring out how to make their first film. Could we find a producer? Would any actors be willing to participate in the project? We used to gather in a common room to watch television together. I distinctly remember watching a series called Circus, and a specific scene with a compelling camera angle in which an actor delivers a monologue. At the time I didn’t know who he was, but I was impressed by his performance. I made a mental note that as soon as I graduated, I would approach him about working on a film.

He added, “It took me two years to complete my studies at the film institute, and by then Shah Rukh Khan had already become a big star (laughs). So I had to wait twenty years before I finally got the chance to work with him on a film.

Rajkumar Hirani About Shah Rukh Khan

Talking about Shah Rukh’s acting skills, he said, ‘I was fascinated by his charisma. I always wore an eye mask and earplugs while he was filming a scene. When he finished, my assistant said to me, “Sir, the shot is over,” and then I opened my eyes (laughs). Seriously, he is a phenomenal actor and an even better individual.”

Dunki casting crew

The film premiered in theaters on December 21 and received mixed responses from audiences and critics alike. According to Sacnilk, the film initially earned Rs 49.7 crore within two days of its release. The film features Shah Rukh Khan, Taapsee Pannu, Vicky Kaushal, Boman Irani and other prominent Bollywood actors. The film is backed by JIO Studios, Red Chillies Entertainment and Rajkumar Hirani Films. Dunki was released a day before Prabhas starrer Salaar. We are currently struggling with that Salaar Part 1: Truce at the box office.