Priyamani's once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: Sharing the screen with Shah Rukh Khan
New Delhi: Shah Rukh Khan's upcoming movie "Jawan" has been the talk of the town in New Delhi ever since it was announced. The film, directed by Atlee, stars the superstar alongside Vijay Sethupathi, Nayanthara, and Priyamani. Among them, Priyamani and SRK had previously collaborated in the 2013 Rohit Shetty film "Chennai Express," where they shared the screen in the popular song "One, Two, Three, Four." Now, as they prepare to work together again, Priyamani has opened up about her experience working with the superstar in the past. During an interview with Gulte.com, Priyamani shared an interesting incident where she found herself in Bengaluru, receiving an unexpected phone call from Rohit Shetty's office. At first, she couldn't help but wonder if it was just a prank, so she immediately reached out to her manager to authenticate the surprising call.
When Priyamani received the news that she would be part of a song in a movie featuring Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone, she had an important question for director Rohit Shetty. Concerned about being overshadowed as a background dancer, she asked if she would have a significant role since the film boasted such big names. To her delight, Shetty assured her that the song would solely revolve around her and Deepika. Excited by the prospect, Priyamani eagerly agreed to be a part of the project. She also revealed that the team noticed her impressive dance skills in a Kannada song alongside the late Puneet Rajkumar, which led them to approach her for the opportunity.
Reflecting on her experience of working with Shah Rukh Khan, Priyamani expressed her excitement, stating, "When they initially mentioned Shah Rukh Khan, it felt surreal. The mere thought of being in the same vicinity as him, even just sharing the same air, fulfilled a lifelong dream of mine."
Revisiting the filming of the song, Priyamani fondly recalled her interactions with Shah Rukh Khan, describing him as incredibly kind and grounded. She emphasized his sweetness, referring to him as the kindest person she had ever met. During the shoot, there were certain steps that needed repetition, and Shah Rukh Khan offered to take her place, urging her to rest. Priyamani, however, expressed her enthusiasm for dancing and reassured him that she was more than willing to dance as many times as needed. Those five nights spent working on the song became the most unforgettable and cherished moments of her life. Although they didn't engage in deep conversations, they played the game Kaun Banega Crorepati on Shah Rukh Khan's iPad. As a token of appreciation for her correct answers, he playfully handed her ₹200.
Discussing the superstar's dedication to his craft, Priyamani mentioned, "While most of us long for rest after wrapping up work at early hours of the morning, Shah Rukh Khan is entirely different. Instead of heading straight to bed, he chooses to utilize that time for further improvement. He would team up with one of the assistants and together they would rehearse on the sets or in his room."
Priyamani, who has been active in the entertainment industry for twenty years, has showcased her talent in both Hindi and various South Indian films. She garnered critical acclaim and even won the prestigious National Award for her remarkable performance in the 2007 movie "Paruthiveeran."
On the other hand, Shah Rukh Khan is also set to star alongside Taapsee Pannu in the upcoming film "Dunki."