Actor Rajat Arora who is known for Kabir Singh and Abhay (OTT) plays an important role (Mukka) in Ranveer Singh’s blockbuster Dhurandhar. Part 1 of the movie has created history and now everyone is waiting for the second part which is releasing on 19th March. Sharing about this opportunity the Engineer turned actor says, ”How can I ever forget that day! It was 3rd July 2024. I had given an audition for a film, but at that time I didn’t even know it was for Dhurandhar. The casting person simply told me that it was a feature film directed by Aditya Dhar. The moment I heard his name, I was already excited because I’m a big fan of his work since Uri. Also, he’s from Delhi and I have my roots there. There was an instant connection. What made the moment even more special was where I was. I had just returned from Vaishno Devi and literally just got down when I received a call from Pankaj from Mukesh Chhabra Sir’s casting team. He told me that I had been selected for a character and that the production house would soon reach out to me.”
He adds, “Honestly, for a few seconds I couldn’t believe it, because he also mentioned that it was a prominent role with a strong presence throughout the film. So I always say, Mata Rani ka ashirwaad tha. In fact, I was born on the 3rd day of Navratri, so I feel there’s always been a very powerful connection with Mata Rani in my life. And being a Punjabi, devotion to Mata Ji is something that’s deeply rooted in our culture. That day felt like one of those moments where faith, timing, and hard work all came together beautifully.” Throwing light on his overall experience of working in Dhurandhar the actor says, ”Honestly, it’s very difficult to sum up my experience of working in Dhurandhar 1 and 2 in just a few words. It was truly surreal and far beyond my expectations. From day one, I received so much warmth and love from every single department whether it was the direction team, costume, makeup, production, Hair and Make up Team, camera, stunt, or even the spot team. Everyone made me feel so comfortable and welcomed.Our journey itself was like an adventure. We started shooting in Thailand, and then travelled to Amritsar, Chandigarh, Leh, Mumbai, and many other beautiful locations. It was actually my first international project, so that made the whole experience even more special for me. I’m extremely grateful to Aditya Dhar Sir, Mukesh Chhabra Sir, and the entire casting team — Pankaj, Deah, Purvi and their team — for trusting me with this opportunity.”
He adds, “I have done shoots before as well, but I must say the kind of warmth, respect, and encouragement I received on this set was something truly memorable. Another special feeling was standing and performing alongside such legendary actors of Industry who are not just brilliant on camera but equally wonderful human beings off camera. I got the opportunity to learn so much from Ranveer Sir, Akshaye Sir, Madhavan Sir, Sanjay Dutt Sir, Gaurav Gera Sir, Danish Pandor Sir, and Naveen Kaushik Sir. Watching them work up close was like attending a masterclass in acting every single day. Working on Dhurandhar 1 and 2 will always remain one of the most special chapters of my life.” Actor Ranveer Singh was an inspiration as always, says Rajat. ”Working with Ranveer Singh was an absolutely amazing experience. He truly is a power-packed personality, full of energy, warmth, and positivity.I still remember the very first day I met him in Thailand. I was going for my costume trials and he was walking towards me from the front. In my mind I was thinking, “Oh my God, today I’m actually seeing Ranveer Singh live… what should I say to him? I was just lost in my thoughts. And before I could even say anything, he came up to me, smiled and said, “Welcome to the gang, brother!” and gave me a warm hug. For a moment I was like, “Is this real?” That’s a moment I can never forget in my life.Throughout the shoot he was extremely friendly and supportive. Whenever he watched the scenes on the monitor, he would often appreciate my work, and sometimes even guide me in certain moments, which really helped enhance my performance. Off camera he was also super funny and spontaneous. I remember one montage scene where Aditya Sir told us to just interact naturally so it would look real. So I randomly said in the scene, “Bhaijaan, wahan ka non-veg bada bakwaas hai, pet kharab ho jaata hai… kahin aur chalte hain aaj.” And instantly he replied, “Tu veg khaya kar.” I somehow controlled my laughter in the shot, but once the scene ended, I burst out laughing. I still wonder how he comes up with such quick and hilarious impromptu lines!”Rajat who is also an author gifted Ranveer one of his books. “I also gifted him one of my books, and he told me that he loves reading short stories, which was a really special moment for me as a writer as well. He’s not just a fantastic performer but also a very intelligent and generous artist. Working with him was truly inspiring, and I learned a lot just by observing him on set.”
