Irrfan gets into action mode with Deepika Padukone for 'Sapna Didi'

Casting director Honey Trehan's directorial debut, Sapna Didi, will see Irrfan as an ally in an attempt to execute underworld don, Dawood Ibrahim. "My character has shades of grey, but playing the part will be an enthralling experience," the actor tells mid-day.

Irrfan Khan and Deepika Padukone

Irrfan's role will require him to pull off a fair share of action sequences, yet the actor doesn't seem perturbed. "Depending on the amount of action that I will need to execute, I will allot certain dates ahead of shooting. It will depend on the final draft, which is currently being scripted. I will devote a few months to get myself physically prepared. Usually, I work on three films a year, which gives me ample time between each. I will use some of that to get in shape for this film."

The Vishal Bhardwaj production is based on investigative journalist-turned-author Hussain Zaidi's book, Mafia Queens Of Mumbai, co-authored by journalist Jane Borges, but Irrfan points out that it will not be an adaptation. The film will pair him with Deepika Padukone for the second time, after Piku (2015).

The acclaim received for his last film, Hindi Medium, has reiterated that there is a draw towards cinema that is driven by good stories, not superstars. The shift, Irrfan says, is long overdue. "The audience has demanded for variety. They want to see a [film like] Baahubali, as well as Golmaal. They have experienced what it is like to witness good content due to the growth of video streaming platforms, and expect world-class entertainment from us. If Bollywood can't live up to it, Hollywood and regional cinema will take over. The audience is dictating their terms. You can't sell garbage behind the face of superstars."