In a refreshing revelation that highlights stark contrasts in Bollywood's star culture, actor-comedian Vir Das has heaped praise on superstar Aamir Khan for his exceptionally mindful and professional conduct on the sets of their upcoming film. Das, who is co-directing and starring in the spy comedy Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos, shared detailed insights into Khan's down-to-earth approach during his cameo shoot.
A Lesson in Humility and Efficiency
Vir Das confessed that the team anticipated a significant logistical shift when Aamir Khan, one of Indian cinema's biggest stars, was scheduled to shoot his cameo. "We imagined that when Aamir Khan is on the set, three more vanity vans will be needed," Das revealed on a podcast. However, the reality was strikingly different. Contrary to expectations, Aamir Khan arrived half an hour early for his shoot and utilized only half of a standard double-door vanity van.
Das emphasized that Khan efficiently managed his own entourage, ensuring no extra burden was placed on the production. This act of simplicity left a lasting impression on the directorial duo. In fact, after Khan completed his first shot, Das and his co-director Kavi Shastri were so awestruck that they had to pause for 30 seconds. "You're trying very hard not to fanboy," Das admitted, acknowledging the unique screen presence Khan possesses, which was evident even in real time.
Reunion After Delhi Belly and Industry-Wide Issue
This collaboration marks Vir Das's reunion with Aamir Khan Productions 15 years after the hit film Delhi Belly (2011). For Happy Patel, Das approached Khan with the script after winning an International Emmy in 2023, believing only Aamir would back such an offbeat project. Khan not only agreed to produce but also agreed to do a cameo.
Vir Das's account inadvertently underscores a major issue Aamir Khan has publicly criticized: the ballooning costs of star entourages. Last year, on the Game Changers podcast, Khan slammed younger actors for burdening film budgets with excessive demands. "When you can afford a lifestyle for yourself, why are you putting that on a producer?" Khan had questioned, expressing shame over actors who demand multiple vans for personal needs.
The Growing Problem of Star Demands
This concern is echoed by several industry veterans. Filmmaker Sanjay Gupta highlighted the extreme scenario where some actors demand six separate vanity vans for personal space, makeup, meetings, workout, dining, and staff. He pointed out that star couples exacerbate the problem, sometimes bringing up to 11 vans to set. Similarly, producer-director Karan Johar argued on the same podcast, stating he has an "ethical problem with entourages, not a financial one." He believes actors should cover personal costs like specific diets or trainers unless it's essential for the film's narrative.
In this context, Aamir Khan's conduct, as described by Vir Das, sets a powerful example. By arriving early, using minimal space, and managing his team, Khan demonstrates a professionalism that directly counters the trend of escalating auxiliary costs. Happy Patel: Khatarnak Jasoos, also starring Mithila Palkar, Mona Singh, and featuring a cameo by Imran Khan, is set to release in cinemas on January 16.
