Sidharth Malhotra pushes his limits with Kalaripayattu and elephant sequences in 'Param Sundari'

Sidharth Malhotra’s next release, Param Sundari, demanded a combination of physical preparation and on-set adaptability unlike anything he had faced before. The role required him to immerse himself in Kalaripayattu, a martial art form known for its fluid combat techniques and precision. This traditional practice, rooted in centuries-old methods, called for weeks of disciplined training and a deep focus on mastering movement patterns.

The preparation went beyond learning fight choreography. Kalaripayattu involves a distinctive rhythm, controlled energy, and swift footwork, all of which had to be seamlessly integrated into the character’s persona. Malhotra worked with instructors to understand the philosophy behind the martial art, ensuring his portrayal carried both the skill and the spirit of the discipline.

The production also introduced another rare element to his filming experience — working closely with elephants. These sequences required not only safety measures but also a sense of trust and awareness around the animals. Coordinating action scenes while moving in sync with such powerful creatures presented a challenge that went beyond rehearsed acting. It meant adjusting to their unpredictable responses while maintaining the flow of the scene.

Director Tushar Jalota’s vision for Param Sundari aimed to combine cultural authenticity with large-scale cinematic moments. For Malhotra, this meant merging technical training with adaptability during high-intensity sequences. The crew invested considerable effort in creating conditions that allowed the martial art and the interaction with elephants to be captured effectively on screen.

Produced by Dinesh Vijan under Maddock Films, Param Sundari will arrive in theatres on August 29. The trailer’s early reception suggests that audiences are taking note of the physical commitment and preparation behind the performance. With its blend of traditional martial artistry and rare on-location experiences, the film positions itself as a distinct entry in Malhotra’s filmography.

Are you planning to watch Param Sundari for the fresh pairing of Siddharth Malhotra & Janhvi Kapoor? Let us know in the comments below.