Taapsee Pannu has always been known for her fearless and diverse choices in films, but when she was offered a role in Dunki, the upcoming film directed by Rajkumar Hirani and starring Shah Rukh Khan, she saw it as an opportunity to step back from the pressures that often come with being the central lead. Speaking candidly about her decision, Pannu shared her experience of working alongside one of the biggest superstars in the Indian film industry and why she was content taking a supportive role in a project led by Khan.
At Sahitya Aaj Tak, Pannu recalled how she made the choice to be a part of Dunki, even though the film was expected to be a massive hit due to its star power. For her, it was less about being at the forefront and more about the chance to work with a visionary director like Hirani, and an iconic actor like Shah Rukh Khan. She admitted that she didn’t mind taking a backseat, knowing that the film’s success wouldn’t hinge on her performance alone.
She explained, “Everyone says that people don’t want to come to you with the films that have big heroes because they think you won’t be doing that. But sometimes I do like to take a backseat where I know that I will do my job and it won’t be a stupid role, but the pressure is not on me to headline.” This statement reflects her maturity as an actor, recognizing the value of being part of a larger ensemble and relishing the opportunity to contribute without the added responsibility of being the face of the film.
Pannu’s approach to her career has always been rooted in choosing roles that challenge her, but in Dunki, she was more than willing to let the bigger stars take the spotlight. She expressed her admiration for Shah Rukh Khan, someone she holds in high regard, and emphasized how much she learned from working with him. For Pannu, Dunki was more than just another film; it was a chance to witness the magic of Shah Rukh Khan’s presence on screen and off.
In her interview, Pannu spoke of how Khan’s approach to his craft is nothing short of inspiring. She mentioned how his humility and professionalism make him a joy to work with, and she cherished every moment spent on set with him. “He is someone I admire a lot,” Pannu said, recounting her time on set. She was visibly in awe of the superstar’s ability to remain grounded despite his enormous fame and success.
While Pannu was more than happy to take a backseat in terms of screen time, she still remained fully committed to her role, ensuring that her performance was meaningful and impactful. She made it clear that being part of a big film doesn’t mean compromising on the quality of work. “I will do my job and it won’t be a stupid role,” she affirmed, highlighting her dedication to every project, regardless of its scale.
For Pannu, it wasn’t about competing with the stars, but rather about doing justice to her character within the larger narrative. This speaks to her versatility as an actor who values the story and the team over personal glory. By being part of Dunki, she acknowledged that while the film’s focus may be on Shah Rukh Khan, she was still playing a crucial part in bringing Hirani’s vision to life.
Her choice to embrace a lesser spotlight in Dunki is a refreshing take on the pressure that often comes with being in the lead. Pannu’s candid remarks underscore her ability to adapt to different roles and her understanding that not every project requires her to carry the weight of its success on her shoulders. With this approach, Pannu continues to build a career that is less about chasing the limelight and more about creating meaningful work.
As the film gears up for release, Pannu’s fans are eagerly awaiting her role in Dunki, knowing that even in a smaller capacity, her presence will be noteworthy. The actress’s willingness to take a backseat when the situation calls for it showcases a maturity rarely seen in the industry, making her a standout talent both on and off the screen.
Taapsee Pannu’s willingness to take a backseat in Dunki also sheds light on her evolving approach to the film industry. While she has carved a name for herself with bold and trailblazing roles in movies like Pink, Thappad, and Badla, Pannu is increasingly prioritizing roles that offer growth and learning over just the opportunity for stardom. In a film where Shah Rukh Khan’s towering presence dominates, Pannu chose to focus on the experience rather than the weight of carrying the narrative. This speaks to her maturity in the industry, understanding that every role is an opportunity to challenge herself, regardless of the scale of the project.
The decision to work with Rajkumar Hirani, one of the most respected filmmakers in Bollywood, was another major factor in Pannu’s choice. Hirani’s films are known for their depth, wit, and ability to tackle important social themes while ensuring the audience is entertained. By joining the Dunki team, Pannu was not only becoming a part of a highly anticipated project but also aligning herself with a director whose body of work is lauded for its excellence. The opportunity to collaborate with Hirani, especially in a film alongside Shah Rukh Khan, offered Pannu a chance to learn and grow as an actor in ways that perhaps could not be measured by the size of her role.
Pannu also highlighted how comfortable she felt working with Khan, noting that his charm and humility created a conducive working environment. Her respect for him, both as an actor and as a person, is palpable, and it’s clear that she’s not just playing a role in Dunki—she’s actively soaking in the experience of sharing the screen with a true cinematic legend. Their collaboration brings a unique chemistry to the film, one that audiences are bound to appreciate.
Even with her decision to take a supporting role, Pannu remains one of the most sought-after actresses in Bollywood today. Her versatility and consistent ability to make impactful choices in a male-dominated industry have earned her immense respect. Her approach to her career is refreshing, as she doesn’t seem concerned with competing for the spotlight but is rather focused on the story and how her character fits within it. This level of professionalism and maturity is rare, especially in an industry where there is often a rush to be the center of attention.
Pannu’s statement about taking a backseat is also reflective of a broader shift in Bollywood, where actors are beginning to embrace more ensemble roles and collaborate rather than compete for prominence. The success of multi-starrer films in recent years, where actors willingly share space and let the story unfold, proves that audiences are ready to appreciate a film not based solely on one star but on the collective effort of an ensemble cast. Pannu’s willingness to take on roles that contribute to this shift further solidifies her place as an actor who values the craft over personal recognition.
Looking ahead, Pannu’s decision to be part of a film like Dunki, which has such heavyweights at its core, will likely open more doors for her in the future. It shows that she is not just focused on the present but is also working towards a long-lasting, diverse career that prioritizes meaningful collaborations and quality work. As the film industry evolves, Pannu’s approach may inspire others to embrace roles that offer growth, even if that means sharing the spotlight or taking on a role with less prominence.
In the end, Taapsee Pannu’s experience with Dunki serves as a reminder that true artistry in cinema isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room but about understanding the bigger picture and knowing when to let others lead.