Shabbir to debut on the big screen

TV actor Shabbir Ahluwalia (Rishi Garewal of Kahiin Toh Hoga), is making a dream debut in Sanjay Gupta and Ekta Kapoor's co-production, Shootout At Lokhandwala.

Apoorva Lakhia is directing the star-studded film, comprising Sanjay Dutt, Viveik Oberoi, Arjun Rampal, Tusshar Kapoor, Esha Deol, Urmila Matondkar, Arbaaz Khan and Rohit Roy.

TV talent

"It is true I will be launching Shabbir in the film," says Gupta. He's got a great role in an ensemble film, and is surrounded by brilliant talent. I have faith in Shabbir and find him very talented. Rohit Roy is also in the film. I find it interesting to promote two hot TV stars — both hold great potential for the future."

How did Gupta chance upon Shabbir? "I have watched his performances
on TV, and he came highly recommended. When I met him for the first time, I realised he has charisma and star presence plastered all over him. Shabbir is perfectly suited for my film, with a galaxy of higher stars."

Gangster rap

According to sources close to Gupta, Shabbir has a super role, and his character will be specially stylised by the filmmaker. "Shabbir plays a gangster in the film, a complete alcoholic with an emotional past that has made him the way he is today," reveals the source about Shabbir's character.

"Amitabh Bachchan will also be seen in the film, in a "specialised role", along with Abhishek Bachchan, who will have a special appearance."

Says Shabbir, "I am very excited to be doing Sanjay Gupta's film. I loved his last, Zinda. It's an ideal break for any newcomer to have. I don't care about playing hero or anti-hero — the role has to excite me. I love films like Usual Suspects and Identity.

When I met Sanjay for the first time, he told me we would work together, but I didn't think it would happen. I met with Apoorva Lakhia on Monday, and he narrated the role and showed me footage from the film; it was mind-blowing! How could I say no?"

TV's on

Doesn't he mind being part of an ensemble cast? "I don't mind that. I am just happy to be a part of a team of professional people, from whom I can learn a lot."

Now that he is doing films, will he give up acting on TV? "No, not at all. I will do TV and films. It all depends on what kind of role it is and what's challenging for me," says Shabbir, who also acts in Karmic Konnection.