Vishal Bhardwaj explains why Farida Jalal agreed to use abusive words in O’Romeo

Filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj has revealed how he persuaded veteran actress Farida Jalal to use abusive language in his upcoming film O’Romeo. Speaking at the trailer launch of Shahid Kapoor’s starrer in Mumbai on Wednesday, Bhardwaj said he explained to Farida why the dialogue was essential for the scene.

“The first thing I told Farida ji was that there was a question of abusive language in the scene. She asked what it was and if it was very bad, and I said that whatever the language is, it is necessary for the character,” Vishal said.

He added that Shahid Kapoor’s character is feared by the city and the underworld but is powerless in front of his grandmother. “She could have controlled him completely. That was the character, and Farida ji accepted it,” he said.

Bhardwaj also praised Farida Jalal for her performance, noting that the dialogue went viral. “She delivered the line with such intensity. We made her wait a lot for the shoot, and it was very painful for her, but we are extremely thankful to her for being a part of this film,” he said.

Farida Jalal, in an earlier conversation with Zoom, explained her initial hesitation about using abusive words. “I didn’t know what to say. I was so overwhelmed that he was there and I was going to work with him. Nahin rehne dijiye, chhod dijiye – aise toh main bolne wali nahin thi. I said I will not use explicit, filthy abuses. If it’s a small and mild one, I can say that. Mere hisaab se zyada nangi, gandi nahi thi. Maa-behen toh nahin bolungi,” she said. She added that Bhardwaj understood her concerns and adjusted the dialogue accordingly.

O’Romeo marks the debut collaboration between Vishal Bhardwaj and producer Sajid Nadiadwala. The film also reunites Vishal with Shahid Kapoor after over eight years, following their work together on Kaminey (2009), Haider (2014), and Rangoon (2017). It is also Triptii Dimri’s first project with the duo.

Scheduled for release on February 14, 2026, O’Romeo is expected to be an action thriller blending strong drama, emotional storytelling, and scenic visuals.