As Dhurandhar 2 continues to smash box office records, the film has truly become the talk of the town, with audiences and critics alike praising its performances. Amid all the buzz, casting director Mukesh Chhabra is being called the real hero for pulling off such a strong casting coup, and in an exclusive chat with mid-day, he opens up about the journey.
Mukesh Chhabra on praise for Dhurandhar casting
Opening up about the overwhelming response to the casting, he credited director Aditya Dhar for his clarity and trust throughout the process. “I feel great, but the real star or the real Dhurandhar of the film is Aditya Dhar. The way he explained things to us and the way he trusted all of us has brought Dhurandhar to life. I`m sure all the love I`m getting for the casting is because of his clear vision and trust in me. Sometimes, when you`re casting, so many different people get involved. Everyone wants a say. But with Aditya, only he and I are making the decisions, and that`s the biggest part.”
He added how their conversation was always about breaking records with this movie. Chhabra said, “The conversation was that we have to break records. The film is great, and we have to take it to the next level in every department.”
Mukesh Chhabra praises Ranveer Singh and Sara Arjun
The casting director also opened up about working with Ranveer Singh and Sara Arjun in Dhurandhar 2, reflecting on their journey and performances. Speaking about Ranveer, he said, “He is a great actor. He is a very hardworking actor. I remember some of his initial tests were done by me. I met him many times during Lootera, then I did 83. It must be 15 to 16 years ago. I still have some old pictures. He was always a great actor. He just needed an opportunity to show everyone what he could do.”
Ranveer Singh was paired opposite Sara Arjun in the film, and their chemistry had sparked considerable chatter when the first part released. In Dhurandhar 2, her character sees a significant evolution, even stepping into the role of a mother. Addressing whether Sara had any hesitation in taking on such a part, casting director Mukesh Chhabra clarified, “No, not at all. She`s a pure actor. She didn`t even ask me if she was going to play a mother in the second part. She only went with the story. I don`t know why people keep overthinking. She`s a pure actor, and she knew everything. She gave one of the most beautiful and best tests of my career when I auditioned her. She was so good in that test.”
Casting director Mukesh Chhabra emphasised his straightforward approach to casting. He shared, “When I cast, I only go with my conviction if the person fits my film’s character. I do not want to know their previous work. There is no other pressure I take.”
Mukesh Chhabra on Ramayana, King
Mukesh Chhabra expressed his excitement about the upcoming slate of big-ticket films he is associated with, sharing how grateful he feels to be part of ambitious projects. He said, “I’m super excited for King and Ramayana. I’m excited for every film I’m working on. I’m very happy that I’m a part of such big films. I’m just praying and wishing the best for everything, because all of us put in a lot of hard work into every film.”
He also reflected on the growing recognition for casting directors in the industry, noting how their contribution is finally being acknowledged on global platforms.
