Aparshakti Khurana's Instant Decision to Join 'Jab Khuli Kitaab'
Actor Aparshakti Khurana recently shared details about his involvement in the romantic comedy-drama 'Jab Khuli Kitaab', directed by Saurabh Shukla. In a candid conversation with Mid-Day, Khurana disclosed that he committed to the project right after the initial script narration, a departure from the typical industry process.
Unusual Script Acceptance Process
Khurana explained that in Bollywood, actors usually take several days to deliberate after hearing a script. However, the compelling writing of 'Jab Khuli Kitaab' made him decide instantly. "Normally, it is a process of 5-10 days. But in the very first meeting with sir, I said, 'Count me in, I’m all yours.' What he had written was so pure that no actor attached to the film had to think twice to say yes," he stated.
Praising Saurabh Shukla's Dedication
The actor also lauded director Saurabh Shukla for his unwavering commitment to the film. Shukla dedicated nearly two years to writing, directing, and completing post-production, even turning down lucrative acting roles to focus entirely on the project. "Kudos to him for taking almost two years out of his life to write and direct, and the post production despite being a busy actor. It’s a tedious process. It takes a lot to say no to those films and the money. I don’t know many actors who have been able to do that," Khurana remarked.
Working with Veteran Actors
One of the highlights for Khurana was sharing screen space with legendary actors Pankaj Kapur and Dimple Kapadia, who play the central elderly couple in the film. He expressed immense respect for them but noted that Shukla fostered an egalitarian atmosphere on set. "These two people are legends. However, Saurabh sir created an environment that everybody was equal on set. Once you reach the set, you are Advocate Negi and not Aparshakti. You only see Gopalji and Anusuya, not them," he explained.
Embracing Simplicity in Storytelling
Khurana highlighted the film's refreshing simplicity, contrasting it with the large-scale action prevalent in many contemporary big films. He believes 'Jab Khuli Kitaab' offers a calm and meaningful experience for both actors and audiences. "It’s amazing to walk hand in hand with so many people. I think in the chaos of all the maar-dhaar happening in the big films, this simplicity was required both for an actor and audience," he said, adding with a laugh that his character holds a unique position in the story.
About 'Jab Khuli Kitaab'
'Jab Khuli Kitaab' is a Hindi-language romantic comedy-drama written and directed by Saurabh Shukla. The film stars Pankaj Kapur and Dimple Kapadia as an elderly couple who decide to divorce after 50 years of marriage. Originally written as a screenplay, Shukla adapted it into a stage play for the Aadhyam theatre festival before its film version. The project was announced in December 2021 and released on Zee5 on March 6, 2026.
