‘Angry’ Saanand Verma Recalls Shock Slap by Gulshan Grover
In a startling revelation that has sent ripples through the Indian entertainment industry, actor Saanand Verma has detailed a disturbing incident involving veteran actor Gulshan Grover. Verma, widely recognized for his role as Saxena ji in the popular show Bhabhi Ji Ghar Par Hain, claimed that Grover aggressively slapped him for real during the filming of their web series, First Copy.
‘It Was Intentional, Not Acting’: The On-Set Altercation
During a candid conversation with interviewer Siddharth Kannan, Saanand Verma opened up about the traumatic event for the first time. He stated that Gulshan Grover delivered a tight, real slap without any prior warning or request for permission. "Gulshan Grover actually slapped me tightly in First Copy, for real," Verma disclosed. He expressed the intense anger he felt in that moment, confessing, "From the inside, I felt like slitting that man’s throat, but I didn’t say anything."
Verma emphasized that this was not a choreographed action for the scene. "It was not acting wala thappad. And you didn’t even tell me that you’re going to slap me really," he lamented. He explained that a prior disclaimer would have at least allowed him to prepare mentally and physically for the impact. Despite the provocation and his inner fury, the actor chose to remain professional, complete the scene, and leave the set without confronting anyone.
A Contrast in Conduct: Anil Kapoor's Courtesy vs. Grover's Silence
Drawing a sharp contrast, Saanand Verma highlighted how other actors handle such intense scenes with professionalism and respect. He specifically mentioned Anil Kapoor, who is also known for performing realistic slaps on screen. "I have heard that Anil Kapoor also slaps for real, but he apologises and extends his sympathies. But, Gulshan ji didn’t even do that," Verma revealed.
This lack of a simple apology led Verma to label Gulshan Grover as "a self obsessed man." He suggested that Grover’s actions were a calculated move to maintain his on-screen 'bad man' persona, even off-camera. Verma, who humorously noted he is "known for getting slapped" due to his roles, clarified that there is a standard process for such scenes, which involves consent and communication, as was his experience during the filming of Mardaani with co-actor Digvijay.
The incident raises important questions about on-set ethics and the boundaries actors must respect while performing. While Saanand Verma managed to channel his anger into his performance, the memory of the unannounced, aggressive slap clearly remains a sore point for the actor.
