Shamas Siddiqui on Bole Chudiyan: Ayushmann Khurrana was my original choice

Ayushmann Khurrana

It's such a joy to see Nawazuddin Siddiqui on screen that many filmmakers write their scripts with the actor in mind. Oddly, when his brother Shamas Siddiqui decided to turn director, he created the universe of Bole Chudiyan, all the while imagining another actor in the central role. "Ayushmann [Khurrana] was my original choice for the film. But the producer wanted to cast Nawaz. When he narrated the story to Nawaz, he loved the script. I have included some incidents from his life in the script, so I felt [the actor] would do justice to the role," says the first-time director.

Nawazuddin Siddiqui with Tamannaah Bhatia

If things had gone according to plan, Shamas would have been at the edit table now, working on the love story's post-production. "We had planned to shoot the climax on April 15. But now, things have [been delayed] due to the prevailing situation. We hope to wrap up the film soon."

Shamas Siddiqui

As much as they have enjoyed working together, it is evident that the two brothers have their share of differences. Recently, the actor slammed Bollywood celebrities for their apathy as they shared their vacation pictures on social media when the country was suffering amid the surge of cases. While many supported Nawazuddin's views, Shamas questioned what "he had done for the society". The director stands by his statement, saying, "We both have different views on the matter. I reacted because the pandemic has brought too much negativity. If someone is [going on a vacation], that's their only option to escape."