Mumbai: In a homecoming of sorts, “Ram Leela” actor Ranveer Singh is all set to star in mentor Aditya Chopra’s much-anticipated directorial comeback “Befikre: Those Who Dare to Love”.
This would be the first time Aditya will direct a film in seven years and without superstar-friend Shah Rukh Khan, the leading star of his directorial previous ventures– “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayeinge”, “Mohabbatein” and “Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi”.
But the casting choice can be explained by filmmaker’s description of “Befikre” as his “youngest and riskiest” movie ever.
Ranveer, a protege of YRF films, was emotional while sharing the news with his fans on Twitter.
“This is a really special video. This is the fourth floor at Yash Raj studio. It is the place where Yash ji used to sit and Aditya sits and essentially this is where I started my journey as an actor,” the 30-year-old actor said.
Ranveer recalled that he gave his first audition five years ago at YRF studio and was elated when Aditya selected him for his debut film “Band Baaja Baarat”.
“Now five years later, it has been a journey… It was always my dream to star in Adi sir’s movie, to be directed by my mentor, something which will be truly special to me. The news is overwhelming and I again cried. Adi saw me crying and said, ‘You can do it,'” said Ranveer, adding it was a “big deal” for him.
The “Dil Dhadakne Do” star said he felt special to be chosen for the project because Aditya could have taken any actor.
“Befikre” was announced by Aditya in a special note on father Yash Chopra’s 83rd birth anniversary on September 27.