SLB on not casting Deepika for Gangubai Kathiawadi: She is distinct in her own way

Sanjay Leela Bhansali in an interview answered a fan question as to why didn't he consider Deepika Padukone for the role of Gangubai Kathiawadi instead of Alia Bhatt.

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Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Deepika Padukone

The film Gangubai Kathiawadi, directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali and starring Alia Bhatt, was released in theatres last week to mixed reviews. Alia's performance was applauded by many, while others believed she was miscast. Our critic praised Alia Bhatt's performance as the "ideal Gangubai Kathiawadi".  Alia sweated and bled to infiltrate Gangubai's skin.

Sanjay Leela Bhansali has collaborated with Deepika Padukone and Alia Bhatt, two of his favourite actresses. However, when asked to choose a favourite, he is unable to do so. He was posed a fan question regarding his perspectives on both Alia and Deepika in an interview with Bollywood Hungama. To which he responded that they are two distinct individuals. They take different techniques and stand at various heights. They speak in different tones and with diverse body language.They have a unique approach to filmmaking. 

When you add it all together. Deepika is a stunning young lady who also happens to be a fantastic performer. Alia in his opinion is a stunning young lady who is also a fantastic actor. However if he had to make Bajirao Mastani he would have to cast Deepika, and if he had to do Gangubai he would have to cast Alia. So, when they find a character that suits them, each one exudes strength, and you can't give the wrong role to the wrong actor. No one but the filmmaker knows which performer will do a good job portraying his narrative.

He further added, 

"Not that in the same breath I can say that Alia could not have played Mastani or Deepika could not have played Gangu. But I feel what casting I’ve done, keeping their essence, is the right casting. So, what Alia did for this role, only Alia could have done. And what Deepika did in those roles only Deepika could have done."

Gangubai Kathiawadi was a film that chronicled the life events of the mafia queen having the same name.

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Sanjay Leela Bhansali Thumbnail

Sanjay Leela Bhansali

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Deepika Padukone

Comments (2)

Bravo! SLB is a Master of film making. You cannot cast the same person in every role.

2 years ago

Deepika was fab in her SLB movies

2 years ago

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